Have you been to Bordeaux? This French city, famous for wine brings to mind beautiful vineyards, immaculately maintained, looking perfect on a sunny day. The day we were walking from our ship to our lunchtime restaurant, the rain was coming down in sheets. There was not a taxi in sight. By the time we squished through the front door of the restaurant, even our underwear was soaked through. At least the wine was good. How do you prepare for unexpected weather while on vacation?
- Where are you starting and finishing? This might be the airport in your home city. Dress for the weather you might expect on either end of your trip. You might feel dumb carrying a winter coat onto your ship in Miami, but your cabin has closet space or hooks along the corridor inside your front door. If your cabin really small, your winter coat can go into the piece of luggage you slide under your bed.
- When the optimist assumes it will rain. This can mean sun showers. It can be a sudden downpour lasting a few seconds. It can be a light rain all morning. If you are an optimist, bring a lightweight rain poncho in its own plastic case. It is about 6x8x2 inches and is easy to pack.
- When the practical person assumes it will rain. When we travel, I pack a lightweight nylon hooded golf jacket in my luggage. This folds easily into my tote bag and stays there until it is needed. This is not a perfect solution. I brought this to Bordeaux. I was still soaked.
- The wisdom of the Barbour jacket. These are the British folks who make the wax covered cotton jackets favored by members of the British royal family, the aristocracy and everyone aspiring to fit into that crowd. The jackets are traditionally green and have an almost mystical quality. It has been said if you ring the bell at a London jewelry store wearing one, the door will always be buzzed open for you. They sell for $300 – $400+, but they last a long time and are pretty weatherproof. You will still need a hat.
- Last minute shopping. Your ship will sell logoed windbreakers. They will not be cheap, but they are a great souvenir. If there is a department store like Marks & Spencer in town or a clothing store like Primark, you should be able to buy a jacket quickly.
- Expedition cruising. If your trip brings you to the Arctic or Antarctic regions, you will need special clothing. Your cruise line will likely be supplying it to you. This should be ideal for the situation.
- You need a hat. Let us assume your climate involves sun or rain, not snow. You will need a hat. Leaving NYC in the winter wearing a straw hat to the airport can look a bit weird. For years I would bring a great straw hat, carefully placing it in the overhead bin. Gradually, I learned beach resorts have plenty of stores that sell straw hats. Primark is a favorite chain in England. The hats are so cheap 9under $10 USD) I used the logic that I was “renting” the hat. I buy one at the start of the trip, wear it for my vacation, then give it away before flying home.
- Shoes. Bear in mind if you are going to get drenched in a Caribbean rainstorm, you need some shoes that can deal with that sort of weather. My dress shoes stay onboard the ship. I try to bring boaters or sneakers when heading ashore. I prefer espadrilles for warm weather walking, but they have fabric tops and can get really soaked, especially if you step in puddles.
Having the right clothing helps enhance the quality of your vacation.
cover photo Ships departing PortMiami’s ship channel taken from South Pointe Park tip of Miami Beach ©Dennis Cox/WorldViews
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