Packing for multi-activity trip

How many dinners do you plan to eat at the hotel?

Hard to imagine I would ever be at such a place, but as a theoretical exercise, I would probably bring just one compliant set of clothes and wear it just for dinner and change out as soon as I was done with dinner. Repeat as needed.

Hopefully others will have better solutions for you

Honestly, I would eat dinner elsewhere! Or maybe eat there at lunch when the dress code is more casual. Just because you’re staying at a fancy hotel doesn’t mean you have to eat there. Or try wearing the nicest outfit (black pants and a sweater) you bring and see if they turn you away. For the man, wear a long sleeve button up shirt and dark pants. If they turn you away, go elsewhere.

I feel the same way about eating at different places and enjoying varied activities but this stay is a gift and we want to at least experience the opportunity! So…one black jacket, pants, top/shirt and shoes in a packing bag should do it? Re-use black for theater or other activities?

My husband has brought a sport coat, and wore it on the plane. Plus 2 ties, for a different “look,” even with same pants and jacket. He often brings a pair of khakis and a darker pair of pants, both casual enough for a boat trip, yet acceptable for a nice dinner. A third tie wouldn’t take up too much extra space, then recycle for 4th, 5th, and 6th wearing. Yours could even wear the sport coat to dinner during the canal boat trip - unless that’d be too posh! Will the jacket stow easily in your berth, and is he bringing both “casual” and “dress” shoes?

I’ve taken 2 or 3 scarves on many trips, and those can instantly dress up whatever else I’m wearing. I haven’t worn heels in a long time, and haven’t brought them on any trip this century! My “good” shoes, however, have gotten me into tea at Fortnum and Mason, and many, many Michelin-starred restaurants. Will you have “deck” shoes for the boat?

I think you can still follow the pack light philosophy. The first thing is to realize no one is paying attention to what you wear. People tend to get caught up thinking you need a new outfit every single day. Will you have access to laundry at some point during the cruise? If so, you can pack 5-6 outfits and rotate.

A few basic pants, maybe a skirt, a few basic tops, a sweater/cardigan you can layer, a scarf or two, and a couple necklaces and you’re set. Check out capsule wardrobes for inspiration. Shoes are my biggest challenge. But you Ve fallen in love with Skechers and I bet I could find a pair that would work for any situation.

Great suggestions! I actually have sketcher type sandals and plenty of scarves and husband has black sketchers…appreciate everyones inout!

You could always do what Brits would do and bring a larger bag so that you didn’t have this dilemma!

You are going to need 2 completely different wardrobes for this trip.

of course the other kicker is that storage space on a narrowboat is slim to none, especially if sharing with others.

On the other hand, if these are your friends, perhaps you will be able to leave your London bags at their house?

Can your husband hire/borrow a jacket in the fancy restaurant? I vaguely remember that being a thing. That a shirt and tie is the only real requirement. So long as you don't show up in demim they won't deny a woman. I have black jersey length - full length - rolls into a corner of a backpack - gets appreciative comments on Cunard - its all about some costume jewellery and scarfs. A pair of black flats which will work on the boat will work midi skirt - or you could wear black slacks and dress them up with a fancy (light, non-iron) top. I just bought a pair of travel trousers which are some sort of slightly shiny lightweight travel fabric - they drape nicely - and will dress up well -plus they have 3 good pockets including a zipped secure one!

You certainly don't need to wash stuff worn for a few hours at night - and you can easily wear the same outfit each night - noone will know except yourselves

To be brutally honest very few people dress up for theatre anymore. Look online. Google London Theatre queues. You’ll see what I’m talking about.

When I go I have a nice blouse or turtleneck
( depending on season) black sweater or black jacket and skinny black Gloria Vanderbilt jeans. Black Slip on or lace up shoes. Have dined upstairs at Rules in this attire.

I’m older than you.

Hope you write up trip report when you return and share how often the sports coat, dress, heels etc were used.