The usuals
Start with your basic travel kit, of course. The usuals: passport, travel documents, phone, camera, tablet, headphones, cruise insurance (with river coverage), sunglasses, toothbrush and so on. Beyond the obvious, here are some Moselle-specific essentials that sometimes slip the mind.
On board the ship
You’ll need to double-check the details of your specific cruise line, but typically cabins include a range of toiletries, such as soap, shampoo and lotion. You’ll never need to pack your towels for a river cruise, and most lines also include bathrobes for added comfort. Slippers are generally available, but often you need to ask for them these days.
There’s also often a laundry service (usually at an extra cost), which means you can pack super light or enjoy the convenience of the ship cleaning all your clothes before you return home.
Technology
Travel adapters
Don’t forget that the ship is unlikely to have British plug sockets, so a power adapter is a must for charging all the devices our lives now seem beholden to. River cruise ships along the Moselle River tend to have European sockets (typically type C, for plugs with two round pins).
eSIM
Many mobile networks offer free roaming in a selection of countries, but be sure to check your plan. If you’re not covered while sailing the Moselle, an eSIM is a great option, particularly for longer cruises. These digital SIM cards provide affordable data while you’re abroad.
A power bank
If you’re often on your phone, taking pictures and sharing your day with the world on social media, then you may want to add a power bank to your day bag, too. You can pick these up pretty inexpensively these days and most carry enough to recharge your phone a couple of times on the go.
Clothing
Comfortable walking shoes
Let’s start with the footwear; it’s so important to get right. Comfortable feet make for a vastly more enjoyable day hiking, meandering around a vineyard or going for an invigorating cycle. Even a day exploring the town centres of Trier, Cochem or Bernkastel benefits from some sturdy soles, thanks to their characterful cobbled streets.
You don’t need to go all-out with next-level hiking boots, though. Trainers are great for pretty much all activities along the Moselle. But keep a nice pair of loafers or smart sandals for a relaxing evening on deck, too.
Casual wear
Layering is key along the Moselle, where you can be treated to a range of temperatures on the same day. A slightly crisp morning may give way to a sauna of an afternoon before the evening breeze cools things back down again.
A balance of breathable shirts and a lightweight fleece or jacket should serve you well. Waterproof outerwear isn’t a bad choice either, especially in spring and autumn.
What to wear for dinner
Each cruise line has its own dress code, so head to your line’s website for more details on what to expect. As a general rule, smart casual is the name of the game. A stylish summer dress or a relaxed shirt paired with a blazer would look the part in the dining room. No need to dress like you’re dining at some extravagant gala dinner – river cruising is refined and elegant, but not ostentatious.
Swimwear
Many Moselle ships have a sun deck with a swimming pool or hot tubs. How better to take in the views while relaxing in the pool?
Athletic wear
There’s typically a small gym facility onboard Moselle River ships, so bring some athletic wear if you think the urge to exercise might call you away from sunbathing. These may also come in handy for hikes or more active excursions.
Payment methods
Euros
Everywhere along the Moselle River uses Euros as the currency. Many places accept card payment, but not everywhere, so it is really handy to carry some small-denomination euros for market snacks, small wine purchases and other keepsakes – cash is still king in Germany’s riverside villages.
Travel-friendly bank card
App-based digital banks, also known as neobanks, often offer far better currency exchange rates than traditional banks. Some even provide multi-currency accounts. Depending on your needs, options such as Monzo, Revolut and Starling are worth considering.
Health
UK GHIC card
These are often overlooked but are incredibly important when travelling in Europe. The GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card) gives you access to state healthcare when travelling in the EEA (European Economic Area) and some other countries. This is crucial even if you have travel insurance, as some insurers will assume you have the card and reflect that in their pricing and level of coverage. It’s free and easy to apply for.
Medications
Obviously, pack whatever prescription medications you need, but here’s some good news: you won’t need to worry about seasickness on the Moselle River. Unlike ocean cruising, the Moselle River doesn’t experience large swells, which can result in some people feeling nauseous. River cruising is smooth and comfortable throughout.
That said, some allergy tablets might be a good idea, particularly in summer.
Insect repellent
During the height of summer, mosquitoes can be a pesky annoyance on the Moselle River, so you’ll want this on hand.
Accessories
A small foldable umbrella
If you’ve chosen to sail in the shoulder season, outside of the peak summer heat, then you can expect a little bit of rain during the cruise. A light, portable umbrella makes easy work of those passing showers.
A backpack or day bag
Some shore excursions take you out for a good few hours, so a comfortable day bag is a handy addition. Throw in your phone, camera, a couple of snacks (you never know when hunger will strike), and your water bottle, and you’re all set for a great day out.
Little lifesavers
Stain remover pen
You can pick these up in the supermarket, and they make light work of a shirt-saving mission… you’re sailing through wine central after all.
Reusable water bottle
These are great for lengthy shore excursions, particularly if you’re hiking or cycling. It can save you a good amount and is better for the planet, too.
Earplugs
River cruises don’t tend to be noisy, but if you’re a very light sleeper and sensitive to noise in any hotel environment, then you might want to have some earplugs handy for a quiet night.
Wine protector sleeve
You’re going on a booze cruise along the Moselle River. A classy one, sure. But there’s going to be a lot of wine served, and you might want to bring a bottle or two home with you. Think ahead and pack a foldable wine protector sleeve – you can pick up a pack of 20 for less than a tenner on Amazon.
Discover our other guides to the Moselle:
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