cruise maven packing list for alaska

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What to pack for an alaska cruise: 41 essentials.

When packing for a cruise to Alaska, layers are key.

Alaska Cruise Packing List

In Alaska, it's possible to experience all four seasons in one day – which means you need to be extra strategic when packing for your cruise. Based on our own experiences, we've compiled a complete list of essentials for your Alaska cruise (plus items to leave at home). Download the U.S. News Alaska Cruise Packing List pictured above to use while you pack. Below, you'll find more information about what you should bring and where to buy it.

(Note: Any mentioned prices were accurate at the time this article was published; they may fluctuate.)

• For the cabin
• For the ship and onshore excursions
• For the journey

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Portable humidifier

You'll likely need to turn on the heat in your stateroom at some point, which means dry air will be inevitable. Prevent a sore throat and sleeping difficulties with a portable humidifier, like this one by Geniani . Less than $30 on Amazon, this lightweight humidifier is USB-powered and can double as a night light in your cabin. A single fill of its tank lasts up to eight hours, and it automatically shuts off when the water level is too low.

Courtesy of Lumify

Due to the dry cabin air, it's also a good idea to pack eye drops, especially if you're prone to dry eye. Systane is an excellent choice for hydration, while Lumify can help with redness.

Magnetic hooks

Cruise ship walls are made of metal, which means you can maximize your space with some magnetic hooks. You'll especially appreciate having the hooks for wet gear after shore excursions .

Available on Amazon for less than $10, the Neosmuk magnetic hooks come in a variety of colors; you can even buy a few sets so everyone has their own color-coded hook.

There are never quite enough hangers in cruise ship cabin closets. Bring some from home, or consider a set of foldable travel hangers .

Motion sickness remedies

Courtesy of Sea-Band

You never know when you'll encounter rough seas, especially if you're on a small vessel . You can even get motion sickness riding in one of the whale watching boats in Alaska, so it's best to come prepared.

Before you board the ship, consider putting on Sea-Band wristbands, which use an acupressure point to minimize nausea and vomiting. Ginger chews also work well for some people. For something stronger, Dramamine has a less drowsy version that's recommended by pharmacists, or you can ask your doctor about a prescription scopolamine transdermal patch, which lasts up to three days and is worn behind the ear.

Wrinkle release spray

Travel irons are not permitted on cruise ships, so a travel-size bottle of Downy's Wrinkle Releaser Plus spray comes in handy for getting rid of wrinkles. It also acts as an odor eliminator and static remover. To remove wrinkles, spritz the garment, then hang it in the shower so the steam can work its magic, too. For tougher wrinkles in fabrics like linen, you might need to send the garment out for pressing. If you do, be sure to give it at least a 24-hour turnaround time if you're planning to wear the item on a specific evening.

Bathroom spray

Courtesy of Poo-Pourri

Unpleasant smells can quickly permeate in a small cruise ship cabin. Pack a small bottle of bathroom spray such as Poo-Pourri or Flushie to keep your room smelling fresh.

Over-the-door organizer

In-room organization is essential on a cruise ship since storage space is limited. Use an over-the-door organizer (or two) to store underwear, socks, shoes and other small items. This option by Simple Houseware has 24 pockets and costs less than $15.

Hanging toiletry bag

For your toiletry bag, bring an option that hangs so you can save precious bathroom counter space. The classic L.L. Bean Personal Organizer Toiletry Bag remains one of our picks for the best toiletry bags on the market and comes in small, medium and large sizes.

Electronics organizer

Courtesy of Bagsmart

Keep your cords, battery chargers and any items for your camera – like SD cards – in one place with this electronics organizer from Bagsmart . It's easy to pack in your carry-on, or even carry in your backpack or daypack if you'll need access to some of the items during the day. Everything is visible, zipped up and secure so you won't lose anything either in the room or in transit.

It's nice to shed heavier boots and shoes after exploring outside and slip on some flip-flops instead. For something affordable and ultra-comfy, Havaianas offers a wide variety of colors and patterns for roughly $20 on Amazon.

Wine or Champagne

Most cruise lines allow passengers to bring wine or Champagne on board, though the permitted amount varies by cruise line. Note that some lines, such as Holland America Line and Carnival Cruise Line , charge a corkage fee in their dining venues.

Portable charger

You don't want to risk a camera or phone battery dying when you finally get your chance to see the northern lights in Alaska . Pack a portable charger to play it safe. This option by INIU has a 4.6-star rating and nearly 100,000 reviews on Amazon. Plus, its thin design makes it more packable than others.

Hand sanitizer

Hand sanitizer is a must for any cruise. You can get a travel-size bottle for $1 at Walmart and other stores, so stock up ahead of your trip.

Courtesy of Badger

It doesn't have to be sunny outside for you to need protection from the sun. You'll be outdoors a lot in Alaska, so pack a mineral-based (reef-safe) sunscreen like Badger or Blue Lizard . The American Academy of Dermatology recommends an SPF of at least 30.

The sun glint can be especially intense in Alaska. Choose polarized sunglasses, which are better at blocking out light than standard options. While popular brands like Maui Jim come to mind, you can find cheaper alternatives on Amazon that are just as effective. These SOJOS sunglasses are especially well rated.

It's also a good idea to pack a baseball cap or a wide-brim hat for protection from the sun. Check out our picks for the best sun hats .

Insect repellent

The height of mosquito season in Alaska runs from late June through the end of July. Pesky bugs are not typically as bad in the places where most tourists visit, but it will ultimately depend on the type of cruise you take. DEET-based sprays like Cutter Backwoods Repellent are the most effective against mosquitoes, but there are alternatives. Badger makes an organic DEET-free repellent with lemongrass and citronella, and it comes in a smaller travel size.

Hiking poles

Lightweight, collapsible hiking poles can be useful if you're going on adventurous treks looking for wildlife in the woods. Covacure's trekking poles are a good choice. Available for $35 on Amazon, they're made of strong aircraft-grade 7075 aluminum, and they fold down to less than 14 inches each. These poles also have foam handles, three types of rubber tips for the poles and adjustable wrists straps. The set comes with a carry bag, too.

Rain jacket

Courtesy of Columbia

The weather can be unpredictable in Alaska, with rain occurring at any time. In the Inside Passage, August and September are typically the rainiest months. In the Southwest part of the state, which includes Katmai National Park and Preserve, it rains nearly half the month from May to September. Cruisers traveling during those months especially will want to pack some rain protection for the outdoors; to stay dry, invest in fabric that is water-repellent and not just water-resistant. Frequent travelers rave about the Columbia Women's Arcadia II Jacket and the Columbia Men's Watertight II Jacket . See our top packable jacket picks for more options.

Waterproof pants are just as essential as a rain jacket in Alaska. The Marmot PreCip Eco Full Zip Pants and Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Pants are both highly rated and available in a wide variety of men's and women's sizes.

Silk thermal long underwear

Silk thermals are a great base layer for the weather in Alaska when you need extra warmth. The silk fabric is lightweight, breathable and thin enough to fit under jeans, rain pants and even leggings. It also naturally wicks moisture. L.L.Bean's collection of silk thermals includes tops and bottoms for both men and women.

Sweaters, sweatshirts and/or fleece

For your mid-layer (to be worn under your rain jacket), you'll want to choose something warm, such as a sweater, sweatshirt or fleece. Helly Hansen makes the lightweight, zippered Polartec Daybreaker Fleece Jacket for women and men that comes in a variety of colors and is well reviewed.

Waterproof walking shoes

Courtesy of Merrell

You'll need comfortable walking shoes for a variety of terrain, but make sure they're also waterproof. The Merrell Moab Speed 2 GORE-TEX shoe is ideal; it's lightweight, durable, waterproof and made with FloatPro Foam to cushion your feet. It's also available in wide sizes. Meanwhile, the Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof offers more stability as a hiking boot, with extra features for better traction on rugged terrain and an air cushion for maximum shock absorption. Waterproof boots from XTRATUF are another option to consider if you're going to be fishing on small boats during your trip.

You'll want several T-shirts (both short- and long-sleeved) for relaxing in your stateroom and layering under your clothes. L.L. Bean's Pima Cotton Tees are a classic choice, as they're very soft and wash well. The long-sleeved version is mostly made of Supima cotton but features modal and spandex for additional comfort.

When cruising to Alaska in the summer, you'll want to have some shorts for warm afternoons.

Courtesy of REI

In addition to rain pants, pack some everyday options like jeans, joggers or leggings to wear on the ship.

Bathing suit

While you may not go swimming ashore in Alaska, there's a good chance you'll want to check out the pools, spa and thermal suites on your ship.

Be sure to bring a hat for chilly mornings ashore. For a lightweight yet insulated option, consider Smartwool's Thermal Merino Reversible Cuffed Beanie . You can pull it down over your ears for extra warmth and cuff it up as the temperature rises.

Land's End has fleece gloves that are warm without the bulk, allowing you to use your phone, camera and other gear while wearing them.

Formal clothes

Some cruise lines, such as Holland America Line, have formal evenings. It's not required to dress up, but many women choose to wear cocktail dresses, while men don slacks and sports jackets or suits.

Themed attire

You'll want to check your itinerary to see if there are any themed parties scheduled for your voyage. For example, if you're sailing on a family-friendly voyage with Disney Cruise Line , you may have a "Freezing the Night Away" themed party with Anna, Elsa and other characters from the Disney movie "Frozen."

Reusable water bottle

Courtesy of Ello Products

Pack a reusable water bottle that you can fill up at onboard water stations before heading off the ship.

Waterproof daypack

Bring a waterproof daypack (or backpack) for excursions to ensure your phone, camera and other valuables stay dry. The Yeti Panga is a worthy investment, but for something a bit more affordable, the Earth Pak Waterproof Backpack is highly rated.

Lightweight mirrorless camera and lens

Today's smartphones have impressive cameras, but most phone cameras won't have the same clarity and quality as a regular camera. If you don't want to carry a heavy DSLR camera and lens around on your Alaska adventure, there are other options. The Canon EOS R10 along with the EF-M 18-150 mm lens is an excellent lightweight, mirrorless option. You can also purchase a mount adaptor for the camera that will allow you to use other EF and EF-S Canon lenses.

While you may luck out with some up-close animal encounters – such as whales coming alongside your boat on a whale watching excursion – most of your Alaska cruise wildlife viewing will be at a distance. A good pair of lightweight binoculars is key if you don't want to miss views of bears fishing for salmon along a river or moose wading through a faraway lake. Bushnell's 8X42 binoculars are waterproof and fog-free.

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Carry-on bag

Courtesy of Travelpro

The type of carry-on luggage you need will depend on how you pack. If you're a minimalist, you can probably fit everything you need in a carry-on like the Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry-On Expandable Spinner . If you're checking a bag and need less space in a carry-on, a carry-on backpack may be more ideal (plus, you might be able to use it as your daypack for shore excursions).

Checked bag

To save space in your cabin, limit your checked luggage by combining your belongings into one or two large bags.

Packing cubes

Packing cubes can keep clothes neat and organized in your suitcase, as well as in your cruise ship cabin. You'll find a variety of affordable options on Amazon, including the top-rated Veken 8-piece set .

Travel pillow

Courtesy of Trtl

You'll want a travel neck pillow for your flight(s) to and from the cruise port. The unique design of the Trtl Travel Pillow supports your head so you won't wake up with neck pain, and the fabric is super soft. It comes in a travel pouch with a hook that can attach to your carry-on bag. If you get chilly on flights, Trtl also makes a packable quilted mini wrap .

Medications

Pack your medications in a travel-size pill sorter , then put it in your carry-on bag or personal item just in case your checked bag gets lost or delayed. Any over-the-counter items you might need should also be packed in your carry-on luggage. It's possible to buy antacids, antibiotic ointments and the like on the ship, but they will be more expensive than on land.

What not to pack for your Alaska cruise

Bear repellent.

While some travelers recommend bear spray for excursions, cruise lines typically prohibit it.

An umbrella will be a nuisance to both you and your fellow travelers on shore excursions. Pack gear like rain jackets and hats instead.

Clothing iron

Clothing irons and steamers are not permitted on cruise ships due to the fire hazard, which is why wrinkle release spray and/or a garment bag is recommended.

Hair dryers are typically provided in staterooms.

Hard liquor

Some cruise lines permit guests to bring one or two bottles of wine or Champagne on board, but hard alcohol is almost always not allowed. Check with your cruise line before you sail to be sure. If you have a beverage package or are sailing on an all-inclusive cruise line , alcoholic beverages will be covered.

CBD and marijuana

Cannabis is illegal in the U.S. under federal law, and many cruise ships do not allow guests to bring or use any form of CBD, including gummies, oils and lotions. It's best to play it safe and leave these items at home. You don't want to risk having the items thrown away – in the worst case, you may not even be permitted to board the ship.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, jeans are acceptable and appropriate for dinner on an Alaska cruise. Alaska cruises are generally casual, and while some people might get dressed up for dinner (particularly on formal nights), it is not a requirement. When packing, remember to check your cruise line's dress code policies.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has cruised to Alaska and traveled through the state in every season on several land tours. She used her personal experience and extensive research to compile this list of what to pack for cruises to The Great Land.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Time to Cruise to Alaska
• How Much Does an Alaska Cruise Cost?
• The Best Things to Do in Alaska
• The Best Alaska Cruises for Families
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

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The Ultimate Alaska Cruise Packing List for 2024

Posted by Guest Blogger | Updated on Jun 9, 2024 | Published on Sep 12, 2023 | Alaska , Cruising Tips , Travel Blog | 0

We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post.

Alaskan cruises are a unique blend of breathtaking glacial landscapes, thrilling outdoor activities, and diverse wildlife sightings. But, the state’s weather can be rather unpredictable – from sunny and warm afternoons to frigid evenings, we’ve got you covered with this ultimate Alaska cruise packing list!

The secret to packing right for an Alaskan cruise is layering. Stick with us as we delve into the specifics to ensure you’re prepared for this exciting Alaskan experience.

From the proper attire and essential gadgets to the smaller items you might not have thought of, we’ll guide you through packing for every situation you might encounter on your journey through the Last Frontier. 

Best Alaska Cruise Packing List 2024

We’ve broken down this list into a few sections including the essentials (for everyone in your group), some specifics for both men and women, as well as a few key items you may want to remember to bring along for the young ones in your group!

The lists I’ve included have been created for a 10-day trip around Alaska (the most common Alaska cruise duration), so depending on the length of your specific trip, you may need to bring more or fewer items.

You can also do a quick search before departing to see if your ship has laundry services available, which may also allow you to bring less clothing than what I’ve mentioned below.

Let’s start with the essentials!

The Essentials:

Rain Jacket Having a rain jacket at your disposal is vital when embarking on an Alaskan cruise. Alaska’s weather is notorious for its unpredictability, and sudden rain showers are not uncommon, even during the summer months. A good, waterproof rain jacket will keep you dry during those unexpected downpours, allowing you to continue your exploration comfortably. Furthermore, most rain jackets are lightweight and compact, making them easy to carry around during your on-shore excursions. Opt for a versatile style that is large enough to be layered over warm clothing during colder weather, ensuring that you’re prepared for whatever Mother Nature throws your way.

Rain Pants Layering is key when packing for an Alaskan cruise, and a pair of rain pants should never be overlooked. Waterproof rain pants will come in handy during hikes with low, wet brush, or if you’re keen on staying out on the deck for photos during some bigger swells. By pairing them with a thermal inner layer, your lower half will stay warm and dry.

Warm Hat To protect your head from cold and wet weather, pack a warm hat that will keep you comfortable in any condition. Choose one with a good fit to ensure you won’t have to worry about it slipping off when you’re out exploring the ship on windy days. Opt for something lightweight but still warm, such as a wool or fleece beanie . Though it may not seem like an essential item at first glance (especially if you’ll be cruising in the summer months), you’ll be thankful to have one when the chilly evenings set in.

Gloves Gloves are another must-have item for your Alaska cruise packing list. Choose a pair that is water resistant to keep your hands comfortable whether you’re heading to dinner or are opting for a fishing tour in Ketchikan . Additionally, consider packing touch-screen compatible gloves so that you can take phone photos without sacrificing chilly fingers!

Tall, Moisture-wicking Socks Moisture-wicking socks are essential for keeping your feet dry and comfortable. Select a pair that is tall enough to cover the ankle and made of breathable fabric. Wool or synthetic fibers are great choices as they will provide warmth while also wicking away sweat and moisture, ensuring you stay comfortable no matter what activity you’re taking part in.

Waterproof Hiking Boots or Shoes When creating your packing list for an Alaskan cruise, don’t forget to include a pair of waterproof hiking boots or shoes for any on-shore adventures. Opt for sturdy soles that will provide traction and stability during hikes or other outdoor activities. Additionally, look for models with waterproof fabric and insulation to keep your feet dry in wet conditions, as well as extra cushioning to ensure you won’t end up with sore feet at the end of the day. The decks onboard a cruise can also get quite slippery thanks to rain and sea mist, so they’ll also prove to be useful while roaming the ship.

Formal Wear Though Alaskan cruises are known for their casual atmosphere, it’s always a good idea to have formal wear when packing. Since most cruise lines will provide at least one black-tie dinner or evening event during the trip, having at least one option is always a good idea. Opt for timeless classics such as black trousers and a collared shirt or a simple solid color dress. In my opinion, don’t worry too much about packing those heels… your feet will be under the table anyway! A pair of flats or boat shoes will do just fine.

Bathing Suit A bathing suit is essential for any cruise, regardless of destination. Whether you’re looking to lounge on the deck or take a dip in the pool or hot tub onboard, you’ll want to be prepared and make sure it’s on your packing list for Alaska. It’s also good to have if you plan on doing any water activities such as fishing, kayaking, or paddleboarding so you don’t get your everyday wear wet.

Day Bag A sturdy day bag will be essential when you’re out exploring ashore. At the very least, bring a reliable backpack that is large enough to fit your water bottle, wallet, some snacks, sunscreen, and extra layers. Look for one with multiple compartments or pockets so you can easily store all of those small items you’ll need during your excursions. One with a water-resistant rain cover is also a good option in case you find yourself caught in some unexpected rain.

Dry Bag A dry bag is a must-have item if you plan on spending lots of time out on the water. This simple yet essential piece of gear will keep your phone, camera, or other valuables safe from water damage during kayaking, fishing, or any other kind of water activity. You can also use it to store clothes, towels, and other items that you want to keep dry while onboard. Ones that float are an extra perk!

Portable Charger No matter where your Alaskan cruise takes you, a portable charger will prove to be invaluable. Select one with two USB ports so you can charge multiple devices at once, and look for one with a large capacity that won’t run out of juice too quickly. I have one from Amazon and it’s lasted me over 5 years!

Reusable Water Bottle Staying hydrated is crucial when exploring the great outdoors, so including a reusable water bottle on your Alaska cruise packing list is a must. Not only will it keep you from having to spend money on water whenever you get off the ship, but it also helps reduce waste onboard. Opt for one that’s made with high-quality material such as stainless steel or BPA-free plastic, and make sure it’s large enough to hold plenty of water. Don’t forget to pack a carabiner so you can easily clip your bottle onto your bag!

Sunglasses No matter what time of year you’re cruising in Alaska, sunglasses are essential for protecting your eyes from the bright sunshine reflecting off the sea or ice. Look for a pair with polarized lenses that will reduce glare and block out UV rays, as well as frames that are comfortable and won’t slip off your head too easily.

Hair Products While Alaska is stocked full of plenty of shops in the ports all selling hair supplies including shampoos, conditioners, oils, etc., it’s best to bring your own from home. The shops near the cruise terminals charge exorbitant prices for these basic necessities, so you can save yourself a lot of money by packing your own.

Oral Hygiene Products When packing for your Alaskan cruise, it’s important to include some essential oral hygiene products. Bring a toothbrush, toothpaste (or powder), floss, and mouthwash that will keep you feeling fresh throughout the voyage.

Deodorant Deodorant is a must-pack item when going on an Alaskan cruise. Look for a long-lasting, waterproof deodorant that won’t give up during your adventures and will keep you smelling pleasant no matter how warm it gets outside. I wouldn’t recommend trying anything new on the cruise, however, just in case it causes skin irritation. If you have a brand that you know and love, stick with that!

Cologne or Perfume Whether you’re getting dressed up for dinner or want to smell nice during the day, having a signature scent can go a long way in making you feel good. Opt for a travel-size version that’s preferably made of plastic instead of glass so it won’t take up too much space in your suitcase and is unlikely to break.

First Aid Products Cruise ships are exceedingly well stocked with medical supplies, but if you’re planning on leaving the ship to explore during your vacation, then it’s important to have some basic first aid items such as antiseptic wipes and bandages on hand. Additionally, bring any over-the-counter medications that you may need such as ibuprofen, acetaminophen, or motion sickness pills if you’re prone to seasickness. Don’t forget to bring any prescription medications, as well.

Snacks No matter where you’re traveling, snacks are always a good idea. Packing your own is not only cheaper than buying from the onboard gift shop or convenience stores in port, but it’s also typically healthier and faster when you find yourself onshore and several hours out from your next meal.

Important Travel Documents (& Copies!) When putting together your Alaska cruise packing list, it’s important to bring all of the necessary documents with you. This includes a valid passport or proof of citizenship, any visas you may need, as well as your ship ticket and a valid driver’s license or other forms of ID. You should also make copies of these documents to have in your luggage and to leave at home in case they are lost or stolen.

These packing lists for both men and women have been designed for a 10-day cruise without the use of laundry services while onboard. Depending on the length of your trip and whether or not you’ll be budgeting time to do laundry, you may need more or less clothing than what I’ve listed below.

10-12 Pairs of Underwear 1 Pair of Long Johns 2 Pairs of Shorts 2 Pairs of Jeans or Khakis 1 Pair of Sweatpants 2-4 Long Sleeve Shirts 2-4 Short Sleeve Shirts 1 Sleep Outfit 1 Pullover or Quarter Zip Light Jacket Accessories such as a watch, jewelry, etc.

10-12 Pairs of Underwear 1 Regular Bra 1 Strapless Bra 1-2 Sports Bras 2 Pairs of Shorts or Skirts 1-2 Pairs of Leggings 1-2 Pairs of Jeans 2-4 Long Sleeve Shirts 2-4 Short Sleeve Shirts 1 Dress or Romper 1 Sleep Outfit 1 Pullover or Quarter Zip Light Jacket Decorative Scarf Cross-body Bag Jewelry

Tablets or Coloring Books Small Backpack Their Personal Water Bottle Their Favorite Sleepy Time Ritual (i.e. a stuffed animal, favorite nightlight, etc.)

FAQ: Alaska Cruise Packing List

In this next section, I’ll be answering some essential questions for your cruise around Alaska so you have everything you need before departing.

What Should I Pack for a 7-day Cruise to Alaska?

For a 7-day cruise to Alaska, you should prioritize packing layers to adjust to the varying temperatures. Start with thermal underwear and socks, followed by a base layer of moisture-wicking t-shirts and long-sleeve shirts. Include one or two fleece jackets or wool sweaters for added warmth.

Don’t forget a waterproof outer layer, like a rain jacket or windbreaker, to protect against precipitation. Pack two pairs of durable pants, preferably one thermal and one water-resistant. In terms of footwear, waterproof boots are crucial. Don’t forget essentials such as gloves, a warm hat, and sunglasses. Alaska can have its hot days too in the summer, so be sure to leave room for a swimsuit, some shorts, and a couple of lighter outfits.

For formal dining nights, pack a semi-formal outfit. Lastly, carry all necessary toiletries, medications, and personal items in your carry-on.

How Do You Not Overpack for an Alaskan Cruise?

Avoiding overpacking for a cruise can be achieved through careful planning and prioritization. Start by checking the weather forecast for your destinations and the duration of your trip as your departure date approaches to help you determine the type and amount of clothing you need. Focus on multipurpose items that can be worn in multiple outfits and layering pieces for different weather conditions.

Invest in travel-size toiletries and consider sharing items like shampoo or toothpaste if you’re traveling with others. Instead of packing bulky items like towels or blankets, confirm beforehand if these will be provided on the ship. For clothing, opt for materials that are lightweight, quick-drying, and wrinkle-resistant to save space and reduce the need for laundry services.

Remember to leave some room in your suitcase for some authentic Alaskan souvenirs you might purchase during your trip. Lastly, once you’ve packed everything, review your items and ask yourself if you really need each item.

If you’re on the fence about bringing something, ask yourself “can I buy this in my destination if I absolutely need it?” and if the answer is yes, then don’t bring it. This will help you determine what’s essential and what can be left behind.

What Do I Need for a Shore Excursion on an Alaska Cruise?

For a shore excursion on an Alaskan cruise, you’ll need a variety of items to ensure that you’re prepared for any weather or activity. Start with comfortable, sturdy footwear suitable for walking, hiking, or any other activities you might participate in. Having some extra layers on hand for warmth and protection from precipitation will also prove to be invaluable resources.

In terms of non-clothing items, consider packing binoculars for wildlife viewing, a camera to capture the beautiful Alaskan scenery, and any medications you may need. Always carry a copy of your ID and ship information in case of emergencies. Remember that all of this including some snacks, your water bottle, sunglasses, sunscreen, etc. can all fit inside that one day bag I mentioned above.

Each excursion may have specific requirements or suggestions on what to bring, so it’s always a good idea to check the details of the activity and confirm with the tour operator beforehand.

Do I Need to Pack for Formal Nights on a Cruise to Alaska?

Yes, formal nights on Alaskan cruises are a tradition and a wonderful opportunity to dress up for an elegant dining experience.

While the dress code varies by cruise line, generally, men are recommended to bring dress pants with a collared shirt and tie, and women are encouraged to pack a cocktail dress, elegant pantsuit, or formal skirt and blouse.

However, if you prefer to keep things casual, many cruises offer alternatives to formal dining where the dress code is more relaxed. It’s always a good idea to check with your specific cruise line for their dress code guidelines.

How Much Spending Money Should You Take on an Alaskan Cruise?

The amount of money you’ll need to take on your cruise depends on several factors including the package you chose, your dining plans, shopping habits, and whether you intend to participate in any shore excursions.

However, as a general guideline, it’s recommended to budget around $50 – $100 per person per day. This will cover any additional dining, drinks, gratuities, and incidental expenses onboard, as well as some shopping and activities at the various ports of call.

Keep in mind that every port will have ATMs available and many cruise lines also have ATMs onboard, so you don’t need to step on deck with tons of cash. This isn’t a safe idea anyway, so just have enough to get you through the first day or two after you have a chance to see how much spending you and your group are doing on average. 

Is it Cold on a Cruise to Alaska?

The weather on an Alaskan cruise can vary greatly depending on the time of year and the specific regions visited. Generally, summers (June to August) in Alaska are mild with temperatures ranging from 50-70 degrees Fahrenheit, but it can drop lower, especially in the evenings.

During these months, Alaska can get cold particularly when you’re out on the deck of the ship. You’ll also experience cooler temperatures as you cruise through the stunning Kenai Fjords when you’ll be surrounded by icy glaciers.

This is why layering clothes is highly recommended to adapt to fluctuating temperatures. Always have a warm jacket or sweater and a rainproof layer handy.

Which Cruise Lines Sail to Alaska?

A variety of cruise lines sail to Alaska, each offering unique experiences and itineraries. Some of the most popular options include:

• Princess Cruises
• Holland America Line
• Norwegian Cruise Line
• Royal Caribbean International
• Celebrity Cruises

To make sure your priorities and preferences are met, it is essential to compare these cruise lines and what they offer. Each is unique in its packages, ports, and ambiance, so do your research so you can select the one that best suits your needs.

When is the Alaska Cruise Season?

The Alaska cruise season typically runs from late April to early October, with the peak season being June, July, and August. These months provide the warmest weather, longest days, and the best chance of spotting wildlife such as bears, whales (among a variety of majestic sea life), and eagles.

However, the shoulder months of May and September can offer discounted rates and less crowded ports. So, depending on your travel style, you may want to consider traveling during the less popular months if you’re looking for more of a budget-friendly or “off-the-beaten-path” experience. 

Final Thoughts on Alaska Cruise Packing

An Alaskan cruise is a unique experience, and packing for it requires a bit more planning and consideration than a typical vacation. Remember to pack clothing that you can layer to adapt to varying temperatures, and don’t forget sturdy footwear for your shore excursions.

Consider formal wear for elegant dining nights, and budget your spending money wisely for any additional onboard expenses and port activities. Most importantly, strive for minimalism— pack only what you need and what cannot be purchased at your destination. Your Alaska cruise packing list is long enough, and you need to leave room for some fun souvenirs!

About the author: Emily Concannon is the face and storyteller behind Emily Embarks and Sea to Summit Alaska . A full-time travel blogger, she is committed to sharing her top travel advice and adventures with the world.

Check out these other related articles:

• 12 Reasons to Book an Alaska Cruise
• Packing for Your Antarctica Cruise
• Essential First Aid Travel Kit

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Alaska Cruise Packing List [Free Printable Checklist]

By Author Emily Junda

Posted on Last updated: December 28, 2023

Categories Alaska

This guide walks you through exactly what to put on your Alaska Cruise Packing List.

An Alaskan Cruise is a whole nother beast in the cruising scene. Instead of soaking up the sun in a bikini, you will likely be bundled in layers, ready to experience everything from towering glaciers to majestic wildlife. The crisp air in return means you need a whole different wardrobe than a traditional cruise. 

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the essentials of packing for an Alaskan cruise, by helping you strike the perfect balance between comfort and adventure.

From versatile layers to specialized gear, we’ll cover everything you need to make the most of your Alaskan expedition. Let’s dive into this Ultimate Alaska Cruise Packing List.

Get Your Free Printable

Alaska Cruise Packing List

Essentials 

Of course, these are the items everyone should bring along for just about any cruise. 

• Vaccination Card (if needed)
• Travel Insurance (optional)
• Wallet/Purse 
• Credit Cards
• Cash (~$100)
• Suitcase (we love our Monos Carry-on)
• Luggage Tag
• Packing Cubes + Shoe Bags

Clothing will depend a little more heavily on the type of weather you will encounter. If you are going in the summer months, the weather might be a bit sunnier and you can get away with lighter layers. But if you are traveling in spring or fall, then you will likely experience cold weather and want many warm layers.

Conversely, many cruise lines have a dress code for formal nights on board at some of the nicer restaurants. Therefore, it can be nice to bring along a few nicer outfits to dress up at night. 

Tip for women: for an Alaskan Cruise, you may want dress pants and sweaters, rather than dresses!

Additionally, Alaska weather is wet, so you will definitely want some waterproof layers to protect you from the elements. A waterproof jacket is mandatory, but you may also consider waterproof pants too.

Lastly, consider the shore excursions you plan to participate in. If your excursion is hiking, you may want to pack some hiking attire.

• Lightweight Jacket (we love our down Patagonia Nano Puff)
• Thick Jacket/ Winter Jacket (Spring & Fall)
• Base Layers (both top & bottom)
• Hiking Pants / Leggings
• Underwear (1 pair for each day of cruise)
• Bra/Sports Bra
• Casual Wear (for days on board) 
• 3-5 shirts (both short sleeve & long sleeve)
• 3-5 pants (jeans, leggings, etc)
• Loungewear/Pajamas
• Rain Jacket
• Heated vest (I love my Venustas Heated Vest )
• Workout Clothes
• Warm Hat/Headband
• Sun Hat/Baseball Cap
• Few nice outfits (optional, for formal nights)
• Thick Hiking socks (preferably wool socks )

Footwear might depend on the type of excursions you are going to do. If you see yourself doing more adventurous activities, having a pair of waterproof shoes might be necessary. 

• Hiking Boots (preferably waterproof – we recommend Altra Lone Peaks )
• Rain Boots (optional)
• Nice dress shoes for dinner
• Flip Flops (for pool/hot tub)

Accessories

These are the items that aren’t totally essential but items that will certainly make you more comfortable when you are out in the elements. 

• Sunglasses (optional: case)
• Hand warmers
• Lanyard for key card
• Day Pack (for port days)
• Backpack Rain Cover 
• Dry Bag (to keep electronics dry in rainy weather)

Electronics

Some of these electronics won’t be necessary for everyone but are good items to bring if you have them. 

A camera is something every tourist should have, whether it be just on your phone or a digital camera. But Alaska cruises are all about scenery, and you will definitely want to snap some keepsakes to remember the trip. Plus you can never have too many memory cards, because trust me, it will be easy to fill up your SD Cards with the stunning scenery. 

Jake and I like to have an Apple air tag in our luggage in case it gets misplaced or brought to the wrong room. If you have an iPhone, you can easily keep track of your luggage’s location. Especially since cruise ship staterooms aren’t typically ready until 3, and most people have their luggage delivered to their room by staff.

• Apple Air Tag (great to keep in luggage)
• Additional Lenses (preferably a zoom lens)
• Extra Memory Card
• Kindle/Tablet + Charger
• Cell Phone Charger
• Portable Charger/ Portable Power Bank
• Laptop + charger (optional)

The rooms on board do come with shampoo and soap. But if you are particular with brands then you might consider bringing your own. Additionally on the list is every other hygiene product you might need for an Alaska Cruise.

• Shampoo 
• Conditioner
• Hair Brush/Comb
• Any Hair Styling Products
• Curling Iron/Straightener
• Makeup Remover Wipes
• Deodorant 
• Lip Balm w/ SPF
• Moisturizer
• Feminine Hygiene Products

Medications

Of course, bring any medications you are prescribed, along with a few others to make your time on board more enjoyable!

• Any prescribed medications 
• Dramamine or Motion Sickness medication
• Ibuprofen/Advil
• Pre or Probiotics

Bonus Items

Also on our Alaska Cruise packing list are a few bonus items. These are things I wish we either had on board or were suggested by other cruisers. 

For example, every morning I got up to enjoy the scenery with a cup of coffee. They only had traditional coffee cups and they were quite small. So I personally wish I brought my own insulated cup that had a lid, so I could walk around the ship without worrying about spilling hot coffee all over my hands. 

Also, you will definitely want some binoculars to get a closer look when some of the scenery or wildlife is far away. 

• Reusable Insulated Coffee Cup 
• Reusable Water Bottle
• Insect Repellent (we didn’t deal with bugs on board the ship, but for some excursions, bug spray could be nice)
• Jewelry 
• Magnetic Hooks (optional to optimize more storage inside the room, the bathroom door and main door are usually metal)

Find Related Alaska Content:

• Check out our in-depth review of the Norwegian Jewel Cruise in Alaska
• Love to drink a few cocktails on vacation? Learn more about the Norwegian Drink Package

We hope you have the trip of a lifetime on your Alaska Cruise! Be sure to check the weather conditions before your trip to fine-tune your packing list.

Save This ‘Alaska Cruise Packing List’ For Later

Dale, Let's Travel!

Ready? Okay, vamos. Time to have fun!

Your alaska cruise packing list (pdf checklist inside).

Updated: Jun 24

Are you gearing up for your first cruise to the Last Frontier? Excitement is in the air as you prepare for your Alaskan adventure! From witnessing majestic humpback whales and bald eagles to exploring the enchanting rainforests, an Alaskan cruise promises unforgettable experiences.

But before you set sail, it is essential to pack wisely to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. here is your ultimate alaska cruise packing list to help you make the most of your voyage:, >> jump straight to the free printable packing list for your alaskan cruise <<.

Clothing Essentials

Ensuring you are well-prepared with the right clothing is paramount for an Alaskan cruise, where weather conditions can shift unexpectedly. From chilly excursions to sunny days on deck, having the appropriate attire ensures you are comfortable and ready for every adventure.

Here is a detailed list of clothing essentials to guide you through packing for your unforgettable journey through alaska's stunning landscapes and vibrant ports of call..

1. A Waterproof Layer

Be prepared for the unpredictable Alaskan weather with a reliable waterproof jacket , rain pants , and waterproof shoes . These items are indispensable for navigating rainy days during shore excursions and exploring ports of call, offering protection against the elements while you immerse yourself in Alaska's natural beauty.

2. A Warm Layer

Combat the chill of Alaska's cooler climates with a cozy layer featuring a lightweight jacket , snug sweatpants , a beanie , a scarf , and gloves . These essential layers provide warmth during chilly excursions, ensuring you stay comfortably warm while venturing into the great outdoors.

3. Base Layer

Enhance your comfort and warmth with a thermal or base layer designed to trap heat close to your body and provide an additional barrier against cold temperatures.

This versatile layer is ideal for exploring alaska's diverse landscapes, whether trekking through rugged terrain or cruising along the scenic inside passage..

4. Long-Sleeved Shirts and Sweaters

Prepare for variable temperatures by packing a selection of long-sleeved shirts and cozy sweaters , perfect for everyday wear onboard and offering added warmth and protection against cool breezes and occasional drizzles.

5. Casual and Formal Wear

Transition seamlessly from casual days to elegant evenings onboard by packing a versatile wardrobe. Include your favorite pair of jeans for laid-back comfort, stylish dress pants for formal nights, and additional formal wear essentials such as a coat , suit jacket , dress shirt , blouse , dress , dress skirt , and formal shoes .

It ensures you are prepared for any occasion while staying warm, fashionable, and appropriately dressed throughout your cruise..

6. Wool Socks

Keep your feet snug and dry with a selection of wool socks , offering superior warmth and moisture-wicking properties for all-day comfort during outdoor excursions and leisurely strolls around the ship.

7. Comfortable Footwear

Stay on your feet all day with comfortable walking shoes that provide ample support and cushioning for exploring Alaska's rugged terrain and navigating the ship's decks with ease.

8. Swimwear and Cover-Ups

You will most likely experience cold weather during your voyage; however, do not miss out on the opportunity to unwind with a soothing soak in the hot tub.

Additionally, many cruise lines offer enclosed pool areas where you can enjoy a swim regardless of the weather. furthermore, during the summer months, temperatures rise, creating perfect conditions to indulge in outdoor pools, splash pads, or water slides available on your cruise ship..

9. Tank Tops and Short Sleeve Shirts

Beat the heat on warmer days with lightweight tank tops and short-sleeved shirts , perfect for staying cool and comfortable during outdoor activities and sun-drenched shore excursions.

Even if your alaskan cruise is during the summer, do not forget to pack a lightweight jacket for cooler evenings or unexpected temperature changes, ensuring you are ready for any weather conditions..

Embrace the sunshine and warmer days with a nice pair of shorts , ideal for outdoor adventures and casual relaxation onboard.

These versatile bottoms offer comfort and freedom of movement for exploring alaska's breathtaking scenery and enjoying leisurely activities under the sun..

11. Daily Wear

Do not overlook the importance of essential daily items, including underwear , bras , pajamas , comfortable clothing , workout gear , belts , hats , and more.

These essentials ensure you stay comfortable and prepared for every aspect of your alaskan cruise adventure, from leisurely days at sea to exciting excursions ashore..

Outdoor Essentials

Whether capturing stunning wildlife moments through binoculars or preserving memories with your camera, being equipped with the right gear ensures you do not miss a single opportunity.

From staying hydrated with a reusable water bottle to protecting yourself from the elements with sunscreen and insect repellent, these outdoor items are essential for a safe and enjoyable adventure in alaska's untamed wilderness..

12. Binoculars

Immerse yourself in the stunning wildlife of Alaska by bringing along a good pair of binoculars , allowing you to observe majestic creatures from afar and truly connect with the natural beauty of the region.

13. Camera Gear

For photography enthusiasts, do not forget to pack your zoom lens and extra memory cards to capture every breathtaking moment of your cruise, from soaring bald eagles to mesmerizing glaciers, ensuring you preserve memories that will last a lifetime.

14. Reusable Water Bottle

A reusable water bottle is essential for staying hydrated as you embark on exhilarating shore excursions and explore Alaska's awe-inspiring landscapes.

15. Insect Repellent

Do not let pesky insects disrupt your outdoor adventures. Arm yourself with bug spray to keep bugs at bay and ensure uninterrupted enjoyment of Alaska's pristine outdoors.

16. Sun Protection

Shield yourself from the sun's harsh rays with sunscreen and lip balm , safeguarding your skin and lips against sunburn and dryness as you bask in the natural beauty of Alaska's rugged terrain.

17. Dry Bag

Safeguard your belongings from the elements with plastic bags and a waterproof bag , keeping your essentials dry and organized during outdoor excursions and ensuring peace of mind as you explore Alaska's breathtaking scenery in all its splendor.

Miscellaneous Items

Beyond clothing and outdoor gear, packing the right miscellaneous items can enhance your comfort and convenience during your Alaskan cruise.

From ensuring your devices stay charged with portable chargers to being prepared for minor emergencies with a well-stocked first aid kit, these essentials ensure you're ready for any situation that may arise. , do not forget to bring along any prescription medications and over-the-counter remedies that you may need, including motion sickness medication for a smoother sailing., with magnetic hooks to maximize space in your cabin and daily use items to maintain personal hygiene, you will be well-equipped for a seamless and enjoyable voyage through alaska's breathtaking landscapes..

18. Cell Phone Chargers

Ensure your devices stay powered up throughout your cruise by packing a portable charger and a regular phone charger , allowing you to stay connected and capture every unforgettable moment of your Alaskan adventure.

19. First Aid Kit

Prioritize safety by packing a comprehensive first aid kit , complete with essential items such as triple antibiotic ointment , alcohol pads , bandages , and gauze , to ensure you are equipped for any minor mishaps that may occur during your journey.

Do not forget to customize your kit with any additional items your family may require for peace of mind..

20. Prescription Medications

Maintain your health and well-being by bringing an ample supply of your prescription medications on your cruise, ensuring you have your essential medications on your journey.

21. Over-the-Counter Medications

Be proactive in managing common ailments by packing over-the-counter medications such as motion sickness remedies , pain relievers , allergy relief , and stomach remedies , equipping yourself with the necessary tools to address any health concerns that may arise during your cruise.

22. Magnetic Hooks

Make the most of your cabin's magnetic walls by bringing along magnetic hooks , invaluable for hanging up items and drying swim trunks or wet clothing, enhancing organization and convenience in your cabin throughout your cruise.

23. Daily Use Items

Do not overlook the importance of daily use items such as toothbrushes , toothpaste , floss , mouthwash , shampoo , conditioner , and cotton swabs , ensuring you maintain personal hygiene and comfort throughout your Alaskan cruise adventure.

Free Printable Packing List for your Alaskan Cruise

Did you find this article helpful and want to download a printable checklist version without the links and images? Submit your first name and email address below to receive the link for a downloadable PDF version of this listing that you can print out and treat as a checklist.

Additional Tips

As you prepare for your Alaskan cruise, consider these additional tips to enhance your experience and ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. 

- before your cruise, check the weather forecast and pack accordingly. while it is tempting to bring your entire wardrobe, keep in mind that cruise cabins are compact and may not have ample storage space., - make the most of your alaskan adventure by participating in shore excursions that offer opportunities to explore the region's stunning landscapes and wildlife. keep in mind that excursions in alaska tend to be pricier compared to those offered on caribbean cruises., - familiarize yourself with the dress code onboard your cruise ship, especially for formal nights and themed events like 70's night, white party, neon colors, and red night. embracing these themed events adds an extra layer of fun to your cruise experience..

Bon Voyage!

With this comprehensive guide in hand, you are fully prepared for the adventure of a lifetime on your Alaskan cruise. So pack your bags, set sail, and have the best time on your unforgettable journey! 

Is there anything you think is missing from this alaskan cruise packing list let me know in the comments below share this article with the person or people you want to go on your next adventure with also, be sure to subscribe below to learn about other places you should add to your "to visit" list ready okay, vamos. time to have fun.

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The Ultimate Alaskan Cruise Packing List

Layers, layers, layers — and much, much more.

Katherine Alex Beaven is a Los Angeles-based travel, food and drink, and culture writer.

In This Article

• Packing Checklist
• T+L's Top Picks and Tips

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Brian Kopinski

The first time I traveled to Alaska was on a family trip. It was a two-week cruisetour with Princess Cruises , where you spend a week on land and a week on a cruise ship — and I got it completely wrong when it came to packing. Growing up in Florida, Alaska was as far away as you could get. We’d suddenly swapped sandy beaches and warm ocean water for glaciers and towering forests, pelicans for petrels, and grouper for king crab. I was out of my element.

Now, after several more trips to Alaska and just being better-traveled overall, I know where I went wrong — and I’m here to share my essential Alaskan cruise packing list with you. For good measure, I’ve also tapped experts from three of the top Alaskan cruise operators for their best packing tips and essentials to make sure you’re prepared for whatever this nature-rich state throws your way. 

Although cruises to Alaska have been taking place as far back as the 1880s, Bettyann Chun, Cruise and Travel Director for Holland America Line , admits that “packing for Alaska, in particular, can be tricky.” Most notably, she says the weather can vary from one extreme to the next, sometimes within just a few hours. Lisa Syme, Vice President of Alaska Product Management at Princess Cruises, adds that it can also be warm one day and rainy the next. 

Don’t fret — this is a list of everything you need to pack for an Alaskan cruise, from the essential clothing items and must-have shoes to the perfect accessories, luggage, and gear.

Packing Checklist for an Alaska Cruise

One of the first things Chun recommends packing is “layers, layers, and more layers.” In fact, this is the most repeated advice from all three experts and a refrain you’ll hear from almost anyone who has traveled to Alaska. Chun recommends packing thermal layers to keep comfortable in temperatures that can range from 30 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. 

While you can pick up many of the items on this checklist in certain parts of Alaska or even on the ship, they’ll likely be a lot more expensive. So I recommend traveling with everything you need right off the bat. This will also give you a better idea of how much suitcase space you’re taking up and how much extra space you’ll have leftover for souvenirs. 

As you read, keep in mind that this list is specific to an Alaskan cruise and goes beyond our general packing checklist for cruises. Remember, the key for Alaska is to pack smart. “The better guests pack,” says Chun, “the more guests can enjoy themselves.”

• Best Base Layer Top: Icebreaker Merino 200 Oasis Lichen Long Sleeve Crewe Top   
• Best Insulating Layer: Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket  
• Best Waterproof Jacket: Columbia Pouration Rain Jacket  
• Best Waterproof Pants: REI Co-op Trailmade Rain Pants  
• Best Beanie: Uniqlo Heattech Ribbed Beanie
• Best Gloves: ihuan Waterproof Windproof Winter Gloves
• Best Hiking Shoes : Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot  
• Best Slides for Women: Crocs Splash Sandals
• Best Slides for Men: Adidas Men’s Adilette Comfort Adjustable Slides
• Best Shoes for Walking Tours: KLAW 528 Walking Sneaker

Accessories and Gear

• Best Binoculars: Vortex Vanquish Compact Binoculars
• Best Reusable Water Bottle: Hydro Flask Stainless Steel Wide Mouth with Flex Cap
• Best Electrolyte Replacer: Drip Drop Hydration Electrolyte Powder Packs (16-pack)
• Best Motion Sickness Solution: Bonine Motion Sickness Relief Chewable Tablets
• Best Stain Remover: Tide Rescue Laundry Stain Remover with Oxi 

Luggage and Bags

• Best Suitcase: Away The Large Flex
• Best Belt Bag: Westbronco Belt Bag with 4 Zipper Pockets
• Best Daypack: L.L.Bean Stowaway Pack
• Best Dry Bag: Osprey Ultralight 3 Dry Sack

T+L's Top Picks and Tips

Clothing and outerwear.

Overall, I recommend aiming to create a capsule wardrobe that you can mix and match throughout your cruise, with the addition of these clothing items that are a must for an Alaskan cruise. Most of these Alaska-specific items have been chosen for their performance and important layering capabilities, but you’ll also want to check out the details for your sailing and cruise line regarding dining room dress codes or formal nights so you can pack accordingly. Keep in mind that any swimsuits or swim shorts aren’t likely to get much mileage anywhere besides the ship’s hot tub or pools.  A good outdoor vest would be a better option.

Best Base Layer

Icebreaker merino 200 oasis long sleeve crewe thermal top for women.

Merino wool is the perfect performance material for a trip to Alaska, where the temperatures can vary from day to day and even from place to place. The Icebreaker 200 Oasis Lichen Long Sleeve Crew gets top marks because it’s warming enough to make for an ideal base layer while being lightweight enough to be worn on its own during warmer days. Plus, merino wool has quick-dry, moisture-wicking properties that keep it breathable and cooling when you start sweating (clutch for summer days and physical excursions). Anti-microbial properties also translate into less odor and longer life between washes, so you can wear it worry-free and repeatedly on the same trip. My first Icebreaker base layer was a go-to when I backpacked around the world for three years, from European winters to Southeast Asian summers. In total, I wore it for over a decade; it never shrank and always performed. 

Best Insulating Layer

Patagonia women's nano puff jacket.

Even if you’re heading to Alaska during the hottest months, don’t skip packing an insulating layer like this Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket . This featherlight zip-up insulating jacket comes in nine color options, has eco-friendly 60-g Primaloft filler made from 100 percent post-consumer recycled polyester, and is manufactured in a fair-trade certified factory. I love it because it’s people-friendly, animal-friendly, and eco-friendly. When it’s packed down into its convenient carry pouch, it can double as a pillow. It’s great for Alaska because it’s waterproof and windproof, so it’s a no-brainer to wear on glacier hikes, during rain showers, on your balcony, and around the ship. The high collar helps to trap heat around your neck, and it’s designed to fall below your hips, keeping your core insulated for better warmth. There are also two zippered pockets where you can securely store your ship identification, lip balm, or other small items. 

Best Waterproof Jacket

Columbia pouration rain jacket.

As mentioned, bringing a quality rain jacket is a must regardless of the season. This Columbia Pouration Rain Jacket works as a lightweight outer layer or shell that you can quickly slip on and zip up for water protection against rain, splashes, or continual mist. This jacket stands out for being waterproof but breathable, and because it can pack down into its own pocket for easy portability. I like this jacket because it’s lightweight, has a detachable hood with a slight rain-blocking brimming (so no need to pack a rain hat), and has hand and chest pockets with easy zipper pulls. You’ll also get optional armpit venting and a more tapered fit that somehow ends up making this rain jacket look kind of chic. The women’s version comes in seven colors ranging from basic to bright, and the six men’s variations include solids and two tones.

Best Waterproof Pants

Rei co-op women’s trailmade pants.

Some people might skip the waterproof pants, but there’s no reason to skip the water protection for your legs after you’ve worked so hard to keep your head, body, and feet dry. That said, you only need to bring one pair of waterproof pants — as long as they actually work. We’re turning to the Trailmade Rain Pants from REI Co-op. For starters, they come from a tried and trusted brand, and are made from a reliable, breathable, waterproof, and windproof fabric that is both rip-resistant and Bluesign-approved. These pants can be worn on their own or slipped on over leggings or jeans. The elastic waist and ankle cuffs are both adjustable, and there are three zippered pockets and a hook for hanging to quickly drip dry after a wet hike. A breadth of sizes from XS to XXL and tall options are available, but the color options are pretty much limited to basic black.

Best Beanie

Uniqlo ribbed beanie.

Moylan cautions that travelers to Alaska should still pack items like gloves or beanies, even in the warmer months. “Weather conditions can swiftly shift,” he says, “and certain excursions or activities may expose you to cold or windy conditions.” My go-to beanie choice is the Uniqlo Heattech Ribbed Beanie because it is made with Heattech fabric technology that absorbs your body heat to keep you cozy. The ribbed beanie is also designed for an exceptional fit, with wide ribbing on the crown and narrower ribbing along the brim. These features come in especially handy on extra cold or windy days. I personally like that these beanies keep my head warm even when they get a little wet from snow or sprinkles and that it’s easy to adjust them to cover my ears. Plus, it comes in multiple colors and is at an accessible price point, so you can easily get more than one. 

Best Gloves

Ihuan waterproof windproof winter gloves.

Packing gloves is definitely a must. “Even if the Alaska weather is warmer than expected, it’s always a good idea to have gloves handy,” says Chun, “especially when out on the deck or off on a shore excursion like an ice walk or helicopter ride up to the top of a glacier.” She also recommends grabbing gloves that have touch tips so you can use your phone and other touchscreen devices without taking off your gloves. These five-layer ihuan Waterproof Windproof Winter Gloves are my go-to pair of gloves for keeping my hands toasty in cold weather. The interior fleece lining is soft and cozy, and the outer material is totally waterproof. I’ve worn these gloves in below-freezing temperatures and used them to pick up snow and for clearing ice without water leaking through or losing heat. The adjustable wrist cuff helps to seal in warmth and keep out snow and water, and there are tech-touch coated fingertips on your thumb and forefingers.

Multiple pairs of shoes are essential for Alaska. Different weather conditions, ground conditions, and activities will require different types of shoes. You’ll need a pair for hiking, one to support your feet during days with tons of walking, and a pair of convenient slip-ons for walking around your room, up on the pool deck, and in the spa areas. Depending on you and your cruise, you might also want to have a pair of dressy flats or comfy dress shoes and/or a pair of versatile everyday shoes or everyday sneakers that are only worn on board the ship. 

Best Hiking Shoes

Merrell waterproof hiking boots.

Chun recommends packing a pair of “durable, waterproof shoes that can handle mud”, and I’ve found these Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots prove themselves time and time again on excursions with muddy or wet conditions and on partially-groomed nature trails. I have laced my Moabs up for walks across frozen lakes, hikes on glacial moraines (leftover rock and dirt deposited by moving glaciers), shallow stream crossings, and across soggy forest floors. They’ve kept my feet dry, my gait steady, and my feet incredibly comfortable and warm. I’m suggesting the mid-height boot because I’ve got the shorts, and I think the extra ankle support of the mids is worth it since Alaska can have a lot of rocky or uneven terrain. 

Best Walking Shoes

Klaw footwear 528.

There will be no shortage of long walks on this trip, whether it’s on shore, in town, or around the ship; so it only makes sense to go for sneakers specifically designed for walking. What I like about the KLAW 528 Walking Sneakers is how they combine exceptional support in all the right spots of your foot but look like sneakers you’d actually want to wear outside the gym or trail. By that, I mean they are made from soft leather, come in seven solid colors, and have a chunky profile. This shoe has full-length arch support and a deep heel cup that can help prevent common aches and pains, like plantar fasciitis and heel pain. I find that wearing these lightweight, supportive sneakers literally adds a spring to my step and keeps my feet from feeling fatigued. As a bonus, they’re rainproof and approved by the American Podiatric Medical Association. Although there is already more room in the toes for comfort, you can also get all sizes in wide options. I recommend sizing down a half to full size. 

Best Slides for Women

Crocs splash strappy sandals.

Forget Croc’s clunky (but comfy) clogs — the Croc Splash Sandals are small, strappy, and still super comfy to wear. The slide-on, slide-off design is convenient and a versatile complement for casual outfits, swimwear, or for puttering around your room The thermoplastic straps are surprisingly soft and don’t rub against the top of your foot, and there’s no breaking-in period that can cause blisters. The entire shoe is waterproof and can be submerged, so you can also go ahead and wear these in the shower. The sole is firmer but still has that classic Croc cloud feeling, and they have patterned bottoms for traction to prevent slipping. The color options sometimes change and have a shiny strap finish that gives nostalgic jelly shoe vibes — but, again, no blistering — while the black and white versions have a muted finish. 

Best Slides for Men

Adidas men's adilette comfort adjustable slides.

These slides are an updated take on the classic striped Adidas slides that were ubiquitous in the ‘90s, and they are excellent slip-on sandals for walking around your stateroom or the ship. They come in five different color options, including two “stripe only” black and white versions. We love these because they are simple and easy to step into while also being extremely comfortable to wear and adjustable. The adjustable velcro foot strap is the secret sauce to getting the best fit for your feet, whether they be narrow, wide, or somewhere in the middle. The foam backing on the strap keeps it comfortable against the top of your foot, while the contoured footbed and patterned sole provide support and a steady base. However, while you can confidently walk on wet surfaces, the foot strap is not waterproof (so don’t submerge or use in the shower.) 

Princess’s Syme notes that guests will usually spend a lot of time out on the decks and outside ashore. Even if it’s cloudy, she says sun protection is a must. Luckily, we’ve tested the best polarized sunglasses and the best travel sunscreens . You’ll also likely want to bring some bug spray to protect yourself against Alaska’s state bird, the mosquito, especially if you’re traveling during the summer months. (I humbly urge you to pick an eco-friendly sunscreen and bug spray that will protect both you and the Alaskan ecosystem.) If you’re using your phone as a camera, it may be worth getting a good portable charging bank to take with you on long excursions. 

The Alaska-specific items you’ll want to pack will keep you hydrated, allow you to observe wildlife more closely, and keep you looking fresh and feeling steady.

Best Binoculars

Vortex optics vanquish 8x26 binocular.

One thing all three of our experts recommended bringing is a pair of binoculars. Don’t worry, you don’t have to break the bank or your neck for the perfect pair. According to Lindblad Expeditions’ Moylan, a “small, packable pair of binoculars” will do the trick for “wildlife spotting and other activities,” whether it’s from your balcony, the ship’s deck, or while out on an excursion. This pair of Vortex Vanquish Compact Binoculars packs a punch for its small size, offering many of the same features you’ll find in a full-size pair. Both the 8 x 26 or 10 x 26 models have fully-coated glass lenses for clear and sharp images, adjustable twisting eyecups, a center focus ring, and a diopter to adjust for specific user vision requirements. They’re also 100 percent waterproof and fogproof and come with a lifetime warranty. And, at just under 13 ounces, they won’t weigh down your neck and are easy to carry on long excursions off the ship. 

Best Reusable Water Bottle

Hydro flask 21 oz. standard mouth bottle.

It’s key to have your own supply of water at the ready. Do yourself and the environment a favor and bring along a reusable water bottle like the Hydro Flask Stainless Steel Wide Mouth with Flex Cap for your cruise. This is a cruise staple in general since you can fill it up from water or soda stations throughout the ship during your entire sailing. It’s indispensable in Alaska where excursions will take you out of the main towns and into nature. I specifically love Hydro Flask because they can take a beating and come out unscathed save for maybe a few scratches. You don’t have to worry about the cap breaking off or the bottle cracking if you drop it. I suggest opting for the 20-ounce since it’s most likely to fit into your daypack pocket without a struggle (I personally use the 32-ounce because I am forever thirsty), and going for the wide mouth since it’s a lot easier to clean. 

Best Electrolyte Replacer

Dripdrop electrolyte powder packets.

I never travel without electrolyte packets. Even if these aren’t normally on your packing list, bring them. “It’s always important to stay hydrated when embarking on an excursion,” agrees Chun from Holland America Line. She notes that a variety of Alaska’s shore excursions, like mountain hikes, long days spent sightseeing, small boat rides, or going up to high altitudes on a glacier or helicopter, can trigger dehydration. I’ve tried several brands, but prefer DripDrop Hydration Electrolyte Powder Packs because they are formulated for fast electrolyte absorption and contain less sugar than other brands. The packet are also about half as wide as my other go-to, Liquid IV Sugar-Free , and contain a good amount of vitamin C and zinc, which is always a nice bonus for the immune system. 

Best Motion Sickness Solution

Bonine motion sickness relief chewable tablets.

Seas on an Alaskan cruise can get spicy, particularly during September or for itineraries that cross the Gulf of Alaska. If you’re prone to seasickness like me, having a personal stash of trusted motion sickness medicine is a must. Most ships will offer seasickness pills on request and/or offer them for purchase in the ship store, but these can run out quickly. These Bonine Motion Sickness Relief Chewables are widely available in U.S. drug stores since the meclizine HCL formula doesn’t require a prescription, and the raspberry-flavored chewable tablets are safe for children 12 years old and up. These are most effective when taken preventatively, aka before you get queasy, and last up to 24 hours — but they can cause some drowsiness. Because of this, I like taking them before bed, so I can wake up with the medicine in my system.

Best Stain Remover

Tide laundry stain remover with oxi, 2-pack.

If you haven’t caught on, Alaska can be muddy. I normally travel with a Tide pen , but found that the great big outdoors of Alaska has the potential to make great big marks on my clothes. While my trusty Tide pen worked great for spot removal, especially on shoes, I wish that I had brought something that could tackle larger stains and spots — like this travel spray bottle of Tide Rescue Laundry Stain Remover with Oxi. The spray nozzle makes it easy to quickly saturate a larger area and the power of Oxi helps to lift out stains you can get both off and on the ship like mud, grass, wine, soil, and coffee. Also, if you’re as clumsy as me, this can be a godsend for any colorful spills on upholstery or carpet in your stateroom. It works best when applied within 24 hours of the incident, but make sure you don’t use it on fussy fabrics like wool, silk, or leather. 

Assuming that you’ve got the regular travel bag staples on your list, like a travel toiletry bag and travel tech organizer , we’re going to focus on specific baggage that will make your Alaska cruise experience much easier to manage. Since packing smart doesn’t always mean packing light, especially when there are multiple layers involved, I recommend using a checked luggage-sized suitcase , preferably with a durable hard shell since it’ll be tossed around and handled by airline and cruise line crew. You’ll also want a daypack, dry sack, and belt bag for carrying all your necessities on the ship and during trips ashore. Ideally these will be water-repelling, but definitely lightweight and packable.

Best Suitcase

Away the large flex.

Away’s The Large Flex combines the style and superior quality that comes with Away luggage with the added flexibility of optional expansion to get a little bit of extra capacity when needed. Why is this so crucial for your Alaskan cruise? The approximate nine liters of extra space comes in very handy on the trip home when you’re searching for a spot to stash souvenirs you’ve picked up along the way. This suitcase is designed to hold enough clothes for a two-week trip, but since Alaska can call for bulkier items, this 29 x 12.5 x 20.5 piece of checked luggage is the perfect size for fitting your ship ‘fits and your excursion outfits in one place. The interior compression, 360-degree gliding wheels, and included laundry bag just sweeten the deal. (Head’s up: this suitcase is two inches over the standard 60-inch airline allowance for bags.)

Best Belt Bag

Westbronco belt bag.

This hands-free belt bag from Westbronco will serve you repeatedly throughout your Alaskan cruise trip, at the airport, on the plane, out on excursions, on the ship, and even in daily life after you get home. The ripstop fabric wears tough but looks sleek, and it’s water-repelling so it’s no big deal if the weather changes or it gets splashed. But what I love most about this bag is that there are four zippered pockets and two main compartments that make it a cinch to organize items and easily locate what you need in a snap without a bunch of sifting or accidental spillage. I usually wear it as a crossbody and find it’s at the perfect angle for accessing items, and the smooth, thick strap never cuts into my neck. I have this in green and in cream, and I will admit the cream did stain easily and doesn’t quite look as quality as the green.

Best Daypack

L.l.bean stowaway day pack.

Although you’ll have access to many pockets throughout your layers, Chun says that having a lightweight backpack is key for keeping all your necessary items together in one place when adventuring out on cruise excursions. I hate hauling heavy backpacks and I also hate flimsy daypacks, so I find the L.L.Bean Stowaway Pack is a perfect compromise. It checks all the boxes. The roughly 22-liter capacity is the perfect storage size for day tour necessities, while the lightly padded shoulder straps and breathable mesh back paneling come in handy for long or hot excursions. The hip and chest straps help keep the bag snug so it’s not hitting your back with every step, and the two stretchy water bottle pockets and internal and external organization pockets add extra value and convenience. The 75D Bluesign-approved, water-resistant ripstop polyester shell made from recycled water bottles weighs about as much as a football, and packs down into its own pocket carry case. 

Best Dry Bag

Osprey ultralight dry sack.

Moylan made sure to note that bringing a small dry bag is “invaluable” for a trip to Alaska so you can keep essential items safe and dry while you’re exploring in wet conditions. For example, on a rainy hike or glacier kayak, you’ll want to keep your camera, cell phone, and wallet rolled up in a dry bag. I’m a big fan of the Osprey Ultralight 3 Dry Sack because its waterproof ripstop fabric offers IPF5 protection for your stuff, and the no-hassle roll top creates a waterproof seal every time. The top-loading roll top and chunky plastic buckle clip release also makes it easy to access and reaccess any items, like a camera, that you may find yourself pulling in and out of the bag frequently. Plus, it packs down flat to nearly nothing and is featherlight, making it an ideal just-in-case item to toss into your daypack. I’ve chosen the 3L size because it’ll easily fit most DSLR cameras, a cell phone, a slim wallet, and a passport. I’ve chosen the lime green color because it stands out more, especially key in low light. 

All three experts agree that the best time to visit Alaska will depend on what you’re most looking to experience or see on the trip. That said, Syme notes that the Alaska cruise season runs from May through September with peak season hitting during June, July, and August. She shares that lower rates are often available during the shoulder season of May and September. However, the months of May, September, and October are known for their rainy weather and rougher seas. 

Moylan notes that each season offers unique experiences. In early-season May, cruisers are privy to stunning views as Alaska emerges from winter and showcases snow-capped mountains alongside vibrant wildflowers. For wildlife enthusiasts, he mentions that mid-summer months are ideal because the salmon runs attract bears, eagles, and other wildlife to rivers. September is Syme’s favorite time of year to visit because of the bounty of rich and bright fall colors that take over the landscape. Moylan says wildlife is also pretty plentiful during this time — it’s also the best time to see the Northern Lights, though they are most prevalent in the off-season winter months. 

For travelers concerned about temperature, coastal temperatures in May range between 40 and 55 degrees with 16 hours of sunlight. During the short summer season, Alaska temperatures vary, sometimes dropping below freezing at night and rising into the 90s during the day. The sun never fully sets, giving you a chance to experience civil twilight. Starting in August, the days become shorter, and the weather cools off to temperatures in the 40s and 60s during the day. 

Regardless of the season you choose to cruise to Alaska, you’ll want to pack a beanie, gloves, and a rain jacket. It’s also smart to pack layers that will keep you warm and cool, both on the ship and on shore excursions, such as a comfortable women's hoodie . This includes base layers, insulating layers, and windproof and waterproof layers. Performance fabrics, like merino wool, are excellent choices for base layers since they have moisture-wicking properties and can be worn several times without being washed. 

Luggage guidance and restrictions vary by cruise line and, sometimes, cruise length. A good rule of thumb is to keep your luggage to 1–2 pieces of carry-on or checked luggage up to 50 pounds each, plus two personal items such as a backpack and tote or purse. Always double-check with your cruise line before you start packing so you know how much space you have available. It’s also worth considering that most airlines have a maximum of 60 inches (the total inches of the length x width x height of your suitcase), and 50 pounds per bag before your luggage is subject to oversize fees. 

An Alaskan cruise offers wildlife viewing opportunities that are only found in a few places around the world. Alaskan cruises also make these activities much more accessible for travelers who would otherwise have to fly to the Arctic, hike for days through the wilderness, or climb mountains for similar experiences. You’ll also have the opportunity to view glaciers and possibly participate in glacier kayaking or walks, which is extremely special. Alaska also gives travelers the opportunity to meet and learn about indigenous peoples, known as Alaska Natives, through firsthand community experiences — a true highlight of many trips. 

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Katherine Alex Beaven is a full-time travel writer who went on her first cruise in middle school. One of the most impactful and memorable trips from her childhood was a two-week cruise to Alaska. Since then, she’s returned to Alaska several times, venturing around the state by plane, by ship, and by car. For this piece, she relied on her own experience packing for cruises, trips to Alaska, and cruises to Alaska. She also collected expert insights and tips on essential packing items for an Alaskan cruise from top Alaskan cruise operators Princess Cruises , Lindblad Expeditions , and Holland America Line . Together, these cruise operators have over 170 years of experience cruising to Alaska. 

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What to Pack for an Alaska Cruise – Plus Free Packing List!

By: Author Carrie Ann Karstunen

Posted on Published: February 22, 2022  - Last updated: November 29, 2022

Packing for an Alaska cruise is so different from packing for most other cruises, no matter which month you’ve chosen to cruise. Here’s what to pack for a cruise to Alaska any time of year.

Alaska is one of my very favorite places to cruise. I know that packing for an Alaska cruise can present some challenges—especially if your cruise is very early or very late in the season.

Many people think that Alaska is always cold, but the temperature and weather in the state can really vary.

Whether you’re wondering what to pack for your cruise in Alaska at the beginning of the season in April, the height of summer, or at the tail end of the season in late September, here’s everything you’ll need to be comfortable and prepared for your Alaskan adventure.

As a bonus, at the end of this post I’ll give you a printable packing list for your Alaska cruise, absolutely free!

Disclaimer: I may receive a small commission when you make a purchase from a link on this site, at no added charge to you. For more info, please read my  Disclosure Policy .

Things to think about before packing for your cruise to Alaska

When you’re going on an Alaska cruise, there are a few things you’ll need to think about before you start packing your bags.

1. What kind of cruise are you taking?

Most first-time Alaska cruisers choose a traditional cruise line, like Holland America or Princess , both of which are well-known for their Alaska cruises.

But adventure-seekers and people who’ve already done a traditional Alaska cruise often go back and try an expedition cruise to get closer to nature on their vacation.

Taking an expedition cruise in Alaska is very different than sailing on a mainstream or luxury cruise line. Most expedition cruise lines will send you a list of recommended items, so check your email for their specific recommendations.

Alaska cruise pro tip: Read your expedition cruise literature carefully to avoid overpacking—they’ll often provide items for passengers to use, like waterproof boots, binoculars, or even parkas.

Expedition cruisers will want to pack more performance or active clothing—you’ll have an outdoor adventure to experience each day. Traditional cruisers can pack more basic outfits, depending on the types of shore excursions you’re planning.

2. What’s the weather forecast?

Checking the weather forecast before you pack is essential for any cruise, but especially when cruising to Alaska! In general, springtime is dry and cool, autumn is rainy and cool, but summer weather (when most people cruise in Alaska) can change from day to day.

So check the forecast and pack layers that work together to give yourself options. If you need to buy a few pieces once you’re in Alaska, the port cities all have plenty of downtown shops where you can pick up a warm jacket (or some shorts if it’s warmer than you expected).

But be prepared for sticker shock! Prices on just about everything in Alaska are significantly higher than in the lower 48 states or in Canada.

3. What kind of shore excursions do you have planned?

Your plans in port really dictate how you pack for your Alaska cruise. You’ll need different gear for hiking vs. shopping in the ports or taking a coach to do some easy sightseeing.

If you find you only have jeans, tennis shoes, and a sweatshirt to wear the morning of your day-long hiking trip in the rainy season, you’re going to have a miserable, soggy day.

But if your idea of the best shore excursion involves comfy coach tours, taking pictures of snow-capped peaks from afar, and enjoying some of the freshest seafood you’ll ever have, casual layers are just fine.

Take a second look at your shore excursion itinerary before you start filling your suitcase, and pack to what you’ll actually do—not just what your pre-conceived notion of “what to wear in Alaska” looks like.

4. Are you doing a cruisetour or spending time in the area before or after your cruise?

Many Alaska cruisers choose to book a cruisetour through the cruise line, where you’ll have several days or a week on land in Alaska.

Others choose to spend a week or ten days in Alaska before or after the cruise on their own. If you’ve already made this part of your plan, congrats! You’re going to have an amazing time. If not, consider adding at least a few land-based days to your vacation if you can.

But extra time might mean extra gear, especially if you’re saving your most active Alaskan adventures for your time on land. Which brings us to:

5. Can you do laundry during your cruise?

The ability to wash some of your clothes during your cruise doesn’t impact what items you pack—but it does impact how many of certain items you’ll need. For example, you might plan to wear a base layer and wool hiking socks every day, but it might not make sense to buy (and pack) seven full sets of hiking socks and base layers for your seven-day cruise!

Thankfully, some cruise ships do have self-service laundry rooms, and most at least offer wash-and-fold laundry service for a fee. Some small ships have no laundry facilities at all (except your bathroom sink, of course!)

If your goal is to pack light and not over-buy for your Alaska cruise, check with your cruise line to find out what options your ship has to wash those items you’d rather not pack too many multiples of. Or find out about laundry options in or near your hotel if you’re doing a cruisetour.

You might also like: How to Pack Light for a Cruise: 9 Essential Tips

What to pack for any Alaska cruise: the basics

Of course, there are many basics you should pack for any cruise—or any vacation for that matter.

I’m not going to waste your time telling you that you need to pack underwear, a toothbrush, or any of the absolute basics. I’m sure you know that already! (I do include all of those things in my free packing list PDF you can get at the end of this post, just so you can check those essentials off your list.)

For my Alaska cruise basics, I’m including just the items you might not realize you’ll need for an Alaska cruise at any time of year.

Let’s assume your Alaska cruise is a typical seven-day voyage. If you’re doing a longer trip you can always add on a few pieces, or just do a load of laundry or two.

You’ll want to be able to put together at least eight outfits (with layers) from the clothing pieces you pack. If you’re packing light, remember that you can re-wear some items. Aim for colors and patterns that coordinate so you can mix and match.

A backpack is a must for any cruise to Alaska. You’ll want your hands free for taking photos of all the amazing scenery and wildlife when you’re out on shore excursions!

Alaska is very casual, so don’t worry about packing cute purses to match your outfits—a sturdy backpack is much more practical as a day bag.

Plus you can use it as your personal item on the plane, as well as for your embarkation day carry on bag.

I always take my 30L backpack when I cruise in Alaska, and it’s the perfect size.

Waterproof rain jacket

No matter what time of year you cruise to Alaska, you should bring a lightweight, waterproof rain jacket with a hood. I don’t think you need a bulky parka, even if you cruise in Alaska at the coldest time of the season!

A light but fully waterproof jacket can do double-duty as a windbreaker and as a top layer over a fleece and a base layer. Don’t pack more than you need.

Be sure to choose a size that lets you wear several layers underneath. When in doubt, size up.

Each member of my family owns a version of this Eddie Bauer packable rain jacket and it’s perfect for any Alaska cruise.

Alaska cruise pro tip: Look for a lightweight rain jacket (with a hood!) that’s both waterproof and seam-sealed. Water-resistant isn’t the same as waterproof, and this detail can make or break your day if it rains.

Lightweight gloves with touch

When you’re out on the water it can get chilly on deck, even when it’s warm on land! You’ll thank yourself for packing a pair of lightweight gloves with touchscreen capability. You’ll avoid cold, chapped hands while taking pics or holding up your binoculars to spot a fluking whale off in the distance.

Rubber-soled shoes

A pair of sturdy, rubber-soled walking shoes is a must, both for walking around the ship’s slippery outdoor decks and for shore excursions.

Take along a pair that’s already broken in, so you’ll know they’ll be comfortable for long days exploring in port.

Depending on the activities you’ve planned, you could pack tennis shoes, hiking boots, or slip-on walking shoes.

At least two pairs of jeans or other long pants

If you’re usually a tropical vacation kind of cruiser, you might not consider jeans to be cruisewear. But on an Alaska cruise, the versatility of jeans makes them one of the top staple items to pack.

Choosing darker denim means you can get more wears out of them before they need to be washed, and you can always wear them to dinner with a cute top or collared shirt.

One pair of hiking pants or all-weather pants

Although jeans are versatile, once they get wet they take a long time to dry. That’s why I like to also pack at least one pair of quick-dry hiking pants for any active Alaska cruise. You can skip these if you’re not planning to hike.

Yoga pants, thick leggings, or fleece pants

Pack a pair of warm, comfy pants as a cozier alternative to jeans for lounging around the ship. I like to pack a pair of cozy fleece bottoms in a dark color that can do double-duty as sleepwear.

Or pack a pair of your fave yoga pants or thick leggings.

2 or 3 Quick-dry t-shirts

A few performance tees—short or long-sleeve depending on the season—are great as layering pieces or on their own. I prefer the quick-dry type instead of 100% cotton for travel.

They wick moisture well when you work up a sweat, and you can easily wash them in the sink and let them drip-dry, no ironing needed.

4 or 5 Casual tops or shirts

You’ll want to pack several casual tops or shirts to wear around the ship and during your less-active shore excursions. Choose the appropriate sleeve length and fabric based on the time of year you’ll be cruising.

Sweater, cardigan, or wrap

For chilly evenings on deck (and in the air-conditioned dining room) it’s a great idea to pack at least one sweater, cardigan, or wrap.

I like to pick one in a color that coordinates with several outfits as well as with my formal attire.

1 or 2 zip-up fleece jackets

A zip-up polar fleece jacket makes an excellent layering piece for your Alaska cruise. I usually pack two because I tend to wear one every day!

Swimsuit and cover up

Depending on the time of year, you might think it’s too cold to swim in your cruise ship’s pools—especially if they’re not covered. But pack a swimsuit and cover-up just in case! Even if the temps are chilly, a soak in the hot tub is the perfect way to relax after a day of adventuring.

You may also like: 20+ Cute Swim Coverups for Cruises & Beach Travel

More Alaska cruise essentials:

• lightweight binoculars

Alaska cruise pro tip: Many expedition cruise lines have a fun tradition—the Polar Plunge! Adventurous passengers can jump into the icy water together for a brisk swim. Don’t forget to pack your swimsuit!

What to pack for an Alaska cruise in the summer

The summer months in Alaska (June through August) are often very comfortable—average temps in Juneau in the southeast generally range from about 63°F (17°C) during the day and about 50°F (10°C) at night.

But recent heatwaves have seen skyrocketing temperatures in many parts of Alaska. If your cruise weather forecast looks to be a hot one, then pack accordingly—but remember that nighttime temperatures out on the water can be significantly cooler.

Here’s what you’ll want to pack for an Alaska cruise in the summer:

Insect repellent

During the summer in Alaska, the mosquitos can be vicious. People sometimes jokingly refer to them as Alaska’s state bird!

So it’s a smart idea to pack some insect repellent. You can choose a version with DEET , but I prefer using a formulation with Picaridin.

I first learned about Picaridin over a decade ago from our travel doctor. I was helping my daughter prepare for a month-long summertime study abroad/volunteer program in Belize, where she’d be spending lots of time in the jungle (aka prime mosquito territory).

Our travel doc recommended Sawyer insect repellent with Picaridin , and we’ve used it ever since. I love how it’s not super-stinky, comes in a non-aerosol pump bottle, and won’t damage plastics (like your synthetic activewear).

Lightweight bottoms (at least two pairs)

If it’s too warm for jeans, you might be tempted to throw on a pair of shorts. But those pesky mosquitoes love exposed skin! Instead, pack a few pairs of lightweight pants. You could pick a full-length pair, a cropped or capri style, or choose a convertible style you can roll up and button .

What to pack for an Alaska cruise in the rainy season

The rainy part of the cruise season in Alaska runs from August through September. Don’t be surprised if you get at least some rain every day!

You’ll need to pack more waterproof gear if you’re cruising during this time of year, in addition to the basics I mentioned earlier.

Here’s what to add to your list when cruising to Alaska in August or September:

Waterproof rain pants

Hands-down, the number-one most useful item that I packed for my Alaska cruise in the rainy season was waterproof pants. They kept me dry and comfy no matter how hard it was raining!

Tall waterproof boots

Before my first Alaska cruise in the rainy season, someone had mentioned to me that they preferred wearing wellie boots on their shore excursions, with the addition of a supportive insole . I’m so glad I took their advice!

I wore my wellies for just about everything on that trip—long hikes out to glaciers, whale-spotting on zodiac boats , and shopping in town. My feet stayed warm, dry, and comfortable!

Travel umbrella

Even if you have a good waterproof raincoat with a hood, it’s a good idea to also pack a travel umbrella when you cruise to Alaska in the rainy season.

I like to pack a windproof version that’s compact enough to fit in one of my backpack’s side pockets. They don’t take up much room, and can save the day when you get caught in a downpour in port.

Waterproof gloves

Although I already mentioned packing a pair of lightweight touchscreen gloves, when you cruise to Alaska in the rainy season, you’ll also want a pair of warmer, waterproof gloves.

Even at the end of the Alaska cruise season in September, the temperature won’t be super-cold. But your hands will get cold if your gloves can’t keep them dry! I like these fleecy lightweight gloves —they’re warm and waterproof, but not as bulky as heavy winter gloves.

Waterproof backpack cover

Many performance backpacks designed for hiking already come with a waterproof backpack cover (it’s often tucked away in a zipper pocket).

But if your backpack doesn’t have one, adding an inexpensive rain cover to your Alaska cruise packing list will let you keep all your gear safe and dry during your outdoor adventures.

What to pack for an Alaska cruise in the colder months

The Alaska cruise season runs from early May to late September, so if you’re cruising at the very beginning or very end of the season, it can get chilly in Alaska—especially out on the water. Average temperatures in May and September in the Southeast are in the 40s-50s F (6-12°C).

Here are some essentials to pack for an Alaska cruise in colder weather.

Puffer jacket or vest

On chilly days you’ll love that you packed a puffer jacket or vest! Remember it’ll keep you warm as long as it stays dry, so layer it up under your waterproof jacket on wet days.

To save space in your luggage, consider using a vacuum compression bag to shrink that lofty puffer into a tiny package.

Breathable hat

You won’t need a thick winter hat, even at the very beginning or end of Alaska’s cruise season. I always just pack a lightweight, breathable beanie that dries quickly.

I’ve found that not only does it keep my head warm and stop my hair from becoming a tangled mess, but it serves another important purpose, especially when it’s raining. If I don’t feel like using an umbrella, my beanie stops the rain from dripping off my hood and into my eyes.

I love this Smartwool merino beanie , and I recommend it (unless of course you have a wool allergy). It’s so soft and light, and not at all itchy.

Breathable base layer

A base layer is key to staying warm, especially on your shore excursions in Alaska. Choose a top and bottom made from synthetic material for the best moisture-wicking.

Merino or silk are good choices, too. Just stay away from cotton or cotton-blend long johns—cotton tends to hold moisture and doesn’t help keep you warm if you work up a sweat.

Be sure your base layer fits close to the skin. Baggy long underwear won’t keep you as warm!

Warm hiking socks

If you plan to do any hiking or other active outdoor adventures, warm hiking socks that keep your feet dry are super-important.

For a seven-day Alaska cruise in colder weather, plan to pack at least three pairs of warm hiking socks. I like to wash mine in the sink and hang them on the clothesline in the shower. They’re usually dry and ready to wear again in a day or two.

I personally love SmartWool hiking socks , and I own several pairs in various weights. I love that there’s no bulky seam at the toe! I’ve also had good luck with Expelit socks, which are a good quality hiking sock at a lower price point. I sometimes find them at TJ Maxx for about $10 a pair (buy them if you see them!!)

Fleece neck gaiter

In the cooler months, you’ll want something to keep your neck warm. You could pack a scarf, but a fleece gaiter is much less bulky (and won’t come undone when you’re hiking or on a whale watch).

I’ve been wearing these Turtle Fur neck gaiters since the early ’80s (my family still calls them “turtles”) for skiing, hiking, and any cold-weather activities. I love how you can pull it up to cover your face when it’s windy, and it fits easily in a pocket if you get too warm.

What to pack for formal night on an Alaska cruise

Many mainstream cruise lines have two formal nights during their seven-day Alaska cruises. Small-ship cruises, like UnCruise Adventures , won’t have any formal nights.

But unlike cruising in other parts of the world, people don’t dress up quite as fancy on formal nights in Alaska. You don’t need to pack your tux or evening gowns—think more “dressy-casual”.

You can absolutely wear a dress or suit, or even just a pair of nice pants or a skirt with a dressy top or collared shirt. Jackets and ties for men are optional on many cruise lines.

If you’re planning to dress up, make sure to pack a pair of shoes that coordinates with both of your formal night outfits.

Read more: What to Wear on Formal Night on a Cruise

Or you could skip formal nights altogether. Many Alaska cruisers instead choose to have dinner at the buffet or a quick-service venue on those evenings. You don’t need to dress up at all if you go that route, but the buffet tends to be extra-busy on formal nights!

Electronic essentials for your Alaska cruise

Camera and accessories.

Even if you usually just use your phone to take vacation pics, you might want to make room in your carry on for a DSLR camera. If you do, I highly recommend also packing a telephoto lens.

Cruise ships don’t get close enough to wildlife to take good photos from on deck without a decent long-focus lens. Unless you want all the whales and dolphins to just look like tiny specks in your photos!

Amateur photographers will want to pack:

• DSLR camera
• Telephoto lens
• Lens hood (to block the sun’s glare)
• Battery charger
• Extra camera battery
• Extra SD cards

If you love documenting your cruise adventures, a GoPro is an excellent addition to your camera bag. It comes in handy on shore excursions when you’re out on the water kayaking or spotting whales from the side of a skiff.

They’re waterproof, so you don’t need to worry about damaging your regular camera or smartphone if there’s a chance of it getting wet. Best of all, GoPro cameras can take both video and still shots for your Alaska cruise.

Check Amazon’s price on the newest GoPro here .

Power strip or block (without surge protection)

Cruise ship staterooms are notorious for not having enough power outlets. This can pose a problem when everyone in the room has multiple electronic devices to charge each day!

Savvy cruisers always pack a power strip—just be sure to choose one without surge protection. Cruise ships’ electrical systems aren’t grounded, and surge-protected power strips could cause a fire.

Cruise pro tip: If you don’t want to pack a power strip (or you forget), most stateroom TVs have a USB port in the back that you can use to charge a device. Often you’ll need to keep the TV on to charge, but it works in a pinch!

Portable charger

Especially if you plan on using your phone to take lots of pictures, a portable charger or power bank is a necessity on an Alaska cruise.

Cruisers from the US often forget that their phone plan works in Alaska’s port cities (and occasionally out on the water when you’re close to a cell tower). So you might burn through your phone’s battery much faster than you would in a foreign location where you typically stay in airplane mode.

More resources for your Alaska cruise

• Best Things to Do in Sitka Alaska on a Cruise
• UnCruise Alaska Review – Northern Passages and Glacier Bay
• What to Pack in Your Cruise Carry On Bag
• How to Have the Best Embarkation Day on a Cruise

Free packing list for your Alaska cruise

Ready to start packing for your Alaska cruise?

My free Alaska cruise packing list is complete with everything you’ll need for your cruise: what you should put in your carry on bag, essential personal care items, and of course everything I’ve detailed in this article.

There’s even room to customize your packing list with any other favorites you’d like to pack for your Alaska cruise.

Just pop your first name and email in the form below and I’ll send my printable PDF Alaska cruise packing list right over!

Are you planning a cruise to Alaska? Or have you already taken one? Which essentials do you pack for an Alaska cruise? Let me know in the comments below!

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Bonnie and Kelly Cable

Friday 29th of March 2024

Thank you for the Sitka tips and guide. This will be a new Ports of Call for us on our 2nd Alaska cruise.

Carrie Ann Karstunen

Saturday 6th of April 2024

Hi Bonnie and Kelly, I'm glad my tips were helpful for your next Alaska cruise! Enjoy Sitka - it's one of my favorite Alaskan ports :)

Friday 11th of March 2022

You really included a ton of valuable tips, particularly things I think people easily overlook (like bug spray). Also, I absolutely love those 30L Eddie Bauer packable backpacks! I usually take an extra one (packed/compressed) on trips, in case I end up buying extra things back.

Hi Taryn, I'm so glad you liked my Alaska cruise packing tips and suggestions! I'm also obsessed with the EB packable backpacks (and for the same reason as you). But it's actually the 30L Adventurer pack that I recommend for Alaska. The packable ones don't have padded straps or a sternum strap/waist belt so they can get uncomfortable if you're out all day carrying stuff around - even just a camera and a couple of water bottles! But they're great as a light bag to stow all your souvenirs in :D

simplyjolayne

Wednesday 9th of March 2022

Great tips. We are going on a cruise to Norway and I imagine many of the necessary items will be the same. When you are used to packing light for overseas trips, packing for a cruise, hiking, AND cooler weather adds a lot of extra things.

Thursday 10th of March 2022

Hi Jolayne, I agree that it's so tough to balance packing light with packing for a cold-weather cruise with lots of hiking! I've cruised in Norway in the summer on a Baltic sailing, but I haven't done the fjords yet - I'm assuming that's what you're doing. I'd imagine packing could be similar, especially if you're doing a lot of hiking. The one thing I think might be different is the formal nights. I don't think they're quite as casual as in Alaska. Enjoy your cruise!!

Battery packs are such an essential part of a trip and I always forget to bring mine! I hope one day to cruise to Alaska and more than anything I would love it in the colder seasons to experience some of its true wilderness. A great informative post with great tips!

Hi Missy, the ends of the shoulder season would be perfect for your Alaska cruise! Or I recommend trying a small-ship expedition cruise where you're in pristine wilderness the entire time. Thanks for stopping by!

Wow thank you for the thorough guide on packing! I went on an Alaskan cruise when I was in middle school and I definitely could have used these tips. I hope to go again one day!

Hi Lita, thanks so much for reading. I hope you can use my packing tips for your next cruise in Alaska!

The Ultimate Alaska Cruise Packing List (+ PDF Printable)

I recently wrote about what to wear on an Alaskan cruise , but then I realized that putting together an Alaska cruise packing list isn’t just about what to wear, it is also what to bring along to make the trip as pleasant and stress free as possible. The clothing you pack is important, but there are also things you need to bring to make the close quarters of the cabin more organized and comfortable, especially if you are cruising with your family.

Even if you are a pro at packing for a Caribbean cruise , an Alaska cruise is a different experience and you may have trouble deciding what to pack. It starts with trading the shorts for rain pants and the sundresses for sweaters. But don’t worry, this packing list includes everything you need for an Alaskan cruise based on our experience aboard the Norwegian Bliss on a summer cruise from Seattle.

Of course, some of what you pack will depend on which Alaska cruise shore excursions you choose (especially if you pick more active excursions) and your ports of call. It always pays to check the weather for your ports ahead of time, but the secret is to be prepared and this packing list will help!

The other thing to keep in mind is that the Alaska weather can vary greatly day by day during the summer Alaskan cruise season. We cruised in late August, and it was pretty cool, windy, and rainy the entire time. I have a friend that cruised a few weeks earlier on Princess Cruises and they had some warm days where it was nice enough to need shorts and t-shirts.

Luckily, since you only need to unpack once and don’t need to worry about carting your luggage from place to place, it is best to use a checked bag when packing for an Alaska cruise, versus trying to fit everything into a carry-on, as you may be prone to do on more active trips.

The only downside is waiting for your luggage to arrive once you have boarded and needing to pack it up and leave it in the hall for collection before disembarking. This is when it helps to have a change of clothes and some basic toiletries or entertainment packed in a personal bag that you carry on board (like a backpack.)

Download the printable Alaskan cruise packing list!

What to Pack for an Alaskan Cruise

Note: This post contains affiliate links. If you click a link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission.

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

What to Pack for the Cabin

Cruise ship cabins are notoriously small compared to the average hotel room. You don’t want to overpack or you will be tripping over stuff whenever you try to move around the cabin. Luckily, most cruise lines provide adequate cabinets and cubbies to fit clothing for three adults or two adults and two children.

The trick is really to make the most of the space that you have. It helps to unpack as soon as your luggage arrives and store your suitcases under the bed. If you have extra items or things you won’t need frequently, feel free to leave those in the suitcase under the bed too.

One of the suggestions I took from my friend Kim over on Stuffed Suitcase , was to include an over-the-door shoe organizer . (Note that not every cruise line will allow you to use over-the-door hooks, which is the reason for the next suggestion.) We were able to hang ours near the door, across from the bathroom, on the two coat hooks built into the wall.

The shoe organizer was very helpful in keeping our shoes out of the way. We also used the extra pockets for hats, gloves, and other small items that were easy to misplace but were often needed when running out the door.

Another tip that I got from my friend Sue was to bring along a set of magnetic hooks . Typically either the cabin door or bathroom door is metal and you can use the hooks here. We found these very helpful for hanging up our coats and sweatshirts. Make sure to get strong hooks that can hold a coat and not just slide down the door. Just keep in mind that these can leave marks on the door if you pull on them. You may want to bring along a Magic Eraser to clean those off.

Other essential items to pack for your Alaska cruise cabin include:

• Travel surge protector with USB outlets (I use the Belkin SurgePlus because of its swivel plug and built-in USB ports)
• Magnetic hooks (look for ones that can hold heavy coats or purses)
• Shoe organizer (if you get over the door, make sure it also has holes so that you can hang it on hooks if over the door is not allowed by your cruise line )
• Magnetic Post-it notepad (for leaving notes on the door for your family or travel companions — remember you will likely be communicating without WiFi/cell service) OR
• Magnetic dry-erase board with velcroed marker
• Pen/pencil velcroed to magnet
• Deck of cards and/or card games
• Laundry bag(s)
• Laundry detergent (if you plan to do laundry, you can bring either pods or these travel packets. Personally I find the pods have a tendency to leak so always put them in a Ziploc when packing)
• Ziplocs or plastic bags
• Travel wrinkle release spray (trying to set up an ironing board in a tiny cruise cabin is not fun so I prefer to use this spray instead, although I pretty much hate ironing at all times)
• Fabric softener sheets (for suitcases to keep them smelling fresh)
• Gel or cling door decorations (these make finding your cabin easier, sometimes people like to decorate their doors for special occasions like birthdays or anniversaries too if the cruise is part of a special celebration)
• Packing cubes / organizers these are essential to keep smaller items like underwear and socks organized in the open cubbies.

What to Pack for the Family

Of course, there are also some things that you need to pack for the whole family. I would recommend keeping some of these that you need for boarding in a carry-on bag for easy access.

• Plane tickets
• Vaccination cards and/or test results (if required)
• Cruise documentation including luggage tags
• Excursion documentation/confirmations
• Travel insurance documentation
• Medical insurance documentation
• Lanyards with sleeve for key cards
• Camera & zoom lens (including waterproof case) to capture the beautiful scenery of Southeast Alaska and the Inside Passage
• Back up camera batteries & charger
• Extra memory camera memory cards
• Smartphones / tablets
• Waterproof phone case or pouch
• Back up power banks / portable charger for your cell phone and electronics
• eReaders or books (my daughter would suggest bringing more books than usual because there is a lot of downtime to read)
• Credit card(s) / ATM card
• Cash (at least $100-200)
• Refillable water bottles (keep in mind that you can’t fill these at the water stations but if you fill a glass, you can keep pouring that in to fill it) and/or insulated coffee mug (to bring coffee to your room or to enjoy on deck)
• Binoculars (for looking for wildlife like eagles, whales, and bears)
• Hats (waterproof is best, but a good knit hat might be needed too!)
• Face sun screen
• Day bag(s) / back pack or dry bag (waterproof is best for activities like hikes as southern Alaska can be very rainy in the summer)
• String bag (s) or fanny pack for carrying stuff around ship

Each cruise line is different but all have limited counter space in the bathrooms. Ours at least had two shelves, but I still worried about items falling off into the toilet or getting wet from the shower. This is one reason why I love this lay-flat toiletry kit for travel.

Most cruise ships will provide hairdryers, just check with your cruise line before you sail. And remember, on an Alaska cruise things are a bit more casual. Usually, there aren’t formal nights or they are optional (at least on Norwegian, this can vary by the cruise line) and the dampness will probably mean your hair is going to frizz anyway so why waste time styling it?

If you are prone to seasickness or motion sickness, you may want to talk to your doctor about a prescription for motion sickness patches. I tried this but to be honest, I took it off after a few hours because they gave me a horrendously dry mouth and I just felt generally awful from it, but I tend to be very sensitive to medications. There was a day when I needed to take Dramamine and lie down for a little bit but for the most part, I was ok.

Another important consideration when it comes to medications and travel these days, always make sure to bring an extra 10-14 days’ worth, just in case you have the unfortunate luck of being quarantined.

Keep in mind that the gift shop is expensive and limited, so bring what you need on board including:

• Dramamine or natural seasickness medication
• Cold medication
• Upset stomach medication
• Pain reliever
• Probiotics & vitamins
• Essential oils (such as soothing lavender )
• Toothpaste & toothbrushes
• Moisturizer
• Hairbrush / comb
• Hair styling products & appliances
• Make up / remover
• Hair bands / pony tail holders

What to Wear on Excursions

Check out my full post on what to wear on an Alaskan cruise (and why) but this will give you a quick overview. The important thing is to dress in layers to prepare for changes in the weather. I’ve found the Columbia brand to be affordable and good quality for trips like this, although I’ve also looked at REI and other outdoor outfitters.

• Hiking pants or fleece-lined leggings
• Long sleeve t-shirt, wool base layer , or thermal base layer
• Flannel shirt or hiking shirt to layer
• Fleece jacket
• Insulated jacket and/or vest
• Rain jacket or waterproof shell
• Hiking socks
• Waterproof hiking boots with good traction
• Rain pants / waterproof pants
• Puffer coat (something small and packable is ideal)
• Baseball hat (waterproof if you can) or knit hat
• Day bag / waterproof backpack / dry bag to fit your camera, water bottle, wallet, and other necessities
• Refillable water bottle
• Thin gloves
• Bug spray / insect repellent

What to Wear at Sea

Days at sea are fairly relaxed and you will want to be comfortable. Adults may want to use the spa or fitness center. Kids may enjoy the kid’s or teen club, lounge, game room, or, maybe it will be nice enough to use the pool or hot tubs.

Just keep in mind that it may take a few hours for your luggage to arrive so if you will want to change right away to enjoy the pool or other areas, be sure to pack what you need in a bag that you can carry on.

• Jeans / leggings / athletic wear
• 2-3 short sleeve shirts
• 3-5 long sleeve shirts
• 1-2 sweaters or sweatshirts
• Socks (bring extra!)
• Gym clothes
• Bathing suit
• Warm cover up or loose clothing to cover up

Dinner & Evening Wear

In the evening, you will want to dress up a little and avoid jeans and sneakers. However, many Alaskan cruises don’t have official formal nights (check with your cruise line on their guidelines) for you shouldn’t need real formal wear or cocktail dresses. Also, keep in mind that the main dining room can get chilly and you will need a jacket or wrap to walk around on deck.

If you are interested, you may also want to check with your cruise line and see if they are offering any theme nights. On our cruise, there was a western night at the barbecue restaurant, and we saw one family decked out in cowboy boots and hats. Personally, I wouldn’t want to pack anything too bulky just for one event but it could be fun if you already have the gear.

• 2-3 pairs of dress pants or skirts
• 5 nicer shirts or sweaters (collared shirts for men, blouses/sweaters for women)
• 1-2 sweaters/wraps / light jackets
• Dress up outfit(s) (optional on many Alaskan cruises)
• Evening bag

If you are traveling to Alaska, don’t forget that rain is very common. Nothing is worse than wet shoes. Ideally, you will wear waterproof shoes or hiking boots on excursions but if not, you will definitely want to bring a pair of backup sneakers. On our cruise, we went sea kayaking, and even though they provided some rain gear and boots, we still ended up soaked because it was pouring as we waited for our shuttle. And we also did a hike excursion and our hiking boots were muddy and wet afterward.

Another tip, bring shoe bags or plastic shower caps to use as foot covers when you are packing up so that the dirty shoes don’t get dirt and mud everywhere.

• Sneakers (casual or athletic)
• Waterproof hiking boots or back up sneakers
• Flats / sandals or dress shoes for men
• Slippers or cozy slipper socks (optional but highly recommended)

Download the Alaska Cruise Packing List

Ready to grab your downloadable Alaskan cruise packing list ? Print out this printable packing list for Alaska cruise PDF and let’s get ready to pack for your trip to Alaska.

PIN THIS FOR LATER

Tamara Gruber is the Founder and Publisher of We3Travel. A former marketing executive and travel advisor, Tamara is an award-winning travel writer and recognized expert in family travel. Tamara is a member of SATW and the Adventure Travel Trade Association, and serves on the Board of the Family Travel Association. She is also the publisher of YourTimetoFly.com and the co-host of the Vacation Mavens travel podcast.

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Publish Date: February 11, 2022

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29 Must-Have Things to Pack for an Alaskan Cruise (11 You’d Never Think Of)

Packing for a cruise to Alaska? When it comes to packing, there’s a big difference between the classic Caribbean cruise and what you’ll experience in Alaska. Of course, you won’t be spending beach time in the warm sun… and you should probably prepare a little differently than bringing a few pairs of shorts and flip-flops.

When we cruised to Alaska, we found the packing to be a bit challenging. While it is summer, the weather can vary dramatically. From warm, sunny days in the 70s to cool, rainy days where it doesn’t get out of the 40s, you need to be prepared for just about anything.

That’s why it’s important to pack a variety of gear — most of which you’d never pack for a “regular” cruise. 

What to Pack for an Alaskan Cruise

Below, we’ve rounded up a list of items that you’ll want to bring for your Alaskan cruise based on our experience in cruising to the area. Keep in mind this doesn’t include obvious things to pack like underwear and t-shirts. Instead, our list focuses on many items you may never think to bring…

Note: The links to Amazon used below are affiliate links. Should you make a purchase, we receive a small percentage of the sale.

Magnetic Hooks

Even if you’ve taken a cruise before, you might be surprised to realize that your cabin door and ceiling are actually metal. Why does that matter? It means you can bring along some magnetic hooks like these and use them to hang things around the room. Whether you need space to hang outerwear or a swimsuit to dry, having these hooks adds a ton of extra space to your cabin. We like to use them as a spot to hang hats.

The name is funny, but people who have used this stuff swear by it. We’ll be frank — cruise cabins are small, and it doesn’t take much from the bathroom to smell up the whole place. Poo-Pourri isn’t an air freshener; you spray a squirt or two on top of the water in the commode and it forms a layer that keeps smells trapped. $10 on Amazon .

Phone Charger

Go ahead and put the charger in your luggage now. Alaska is interesting because it’s one of the few places you can cruise where you don’t have to get a special international plan to call or text . That means you can often keep in touch, text, and check your email via your phone. Just be sure that you don’t forget the charger at home.

Water Bottle

There’s a lot to see on an Alaskan cruise when it comes to wildlife. From eagles to bears to whales, the area is known for a wide range of animals. We’ll never forget watching the wake of the ship one day and then seeing whales breach the surface of the water. From the ship you can get some great vantage points, but you’ll definitely want some binoculars to get a better view. They don’t have to be expensive, but just having a solid pair will make wildlife viewing so much better. This pair is around $30 on Amazon .

Camera & Accessories

Maybe this is obvious, but these days we’re not so sure. So many people skip having a traditional camera and instead just use their phone (including us!). Make no doubt, phone cameras have gotten pretty good these days. However, we’d prefer to bring along a traditional camera  like this one. After all, if you are going to one of the most picturesque places on Earth, it makes sense to bring a camera — not a phone.

Monopod for Camera

The Alaskan wilderness is picturesque. And while we’ve mentioned bringing a camera, you might also want to pack a monopod . This simple pod screws onto your camera to give you a firm base for shooting pictures, helping you avoid any blurry photos. After all, most people only get one chance to sail to Alaska… you don’t want to make a mistake on your pictures. Plus, this can also double as a walking stick on your adventures.

Rain Slicker

Cool and damp is common in Alaska, even during the summer. And while you should pack a jacket, it’s also a good idea to bring along a rain slicker. This jacket is light enough to wear on warmer days, but also keeps you dry while you’re out and about. Best of all, if you are a light packer, a good rain jacket can pack up fairly small and not take up a ton of space. This jacket is affordable and gets great reviews .

Sunscreen? In Alaska? Yes, indeed. Sure you may not be sitting on the deck by the pool in a swimsuit, but even being out and about during an excursion is enough to get burned. So while most of your body is likely to be covered up in warmer clothes, it’s still a good idea to pack sunscreen for exposed areas like your cheeks, ears, and neck.

Multi-Outlet Adapter

Luckily, you can bring adapters to add more plugs and they are relatively cheap ( read more about bringing adapters here ). We are always sure to pack one of these when we sail and they don’t take up hardly any space.

Just be sure to avoid those with surge protectors built in. Surge protectors aren’t allowed on ships. The adapter above costs only about $7 .

Alarm Clock

That’s why it’s a good idea to keep an alarm clock in your room. First, it will help you wake up if your body’s internal clock is off, but it will also help you keep track of the time of day when you can’t rely on the natural rhythm of day and night. This one is less than $15 on Amazon .

Hiking Boots

Yes, you can see the beauty of Alaska from the cruise ship, but it’s popular to take excursions into the more rugged wilderness. As you can guess, this involves a bit of hiking in most cases. Bringing sturdy footwear is a must. They will help keep your feet protected from rough terrain. Amazon has a ton of options in all price ranges .

Insect Repellent

Mosquitoes? In Alaska? While most people don’t think of mosquitoes when they think of the area, they are a fact of life in the summer. (Just Google “Alaskan mosquito” if you don’t believe us.) Bringing insect repellent isn’t just a smart idea . It’s essential. It can keep you from being eaten up by the insects when you are out and about.

Shoe Organizer (For Storing Small Items)

First things first, you shouldn’t pack enough shoes to need a full-fledge shoe organizer. But bringing the shoe organizer anyway is a smart move anyway. These things unfold to hang over a bathroom door in the cabin and give you tons of pockets to store small items like toiletries, phone chargers, belts, sunscreen, and anything else you can fit. It’s become one of our must-haves on any cruise. You can find them for cheap on Amazon .

Ziploc Bags

Ziplocs can be a lifesaver. Best of all, they are cheap, don’t take up any space, and have a lot of uses. If you are packing, Ziploc bags can help you keep organized. While on your trip, they can keep things like a phone dry in a pinch. And back in the cabin, they can help you keep dirty clothes separate from clean ones.

Swimsuit for the Ship

Swimming in Alaska? It’s not crazy. Cruise ships will have hot tubs that you can soak in while watching the beauty of the area float past. And many ships these days also have heated pools or indoor solariums where you can take a dip in relative warmth, no matter the weather outside. In other words, just because you are headed for a cold area, don’t leave the swimsuit at home. 

Wide-Brimmed Hat

Staying in an interior cabin? Or are you the type of person who is like us and needs white noise to sleep (it’s a good idea on a busy ship). In that case, we suggest packing a small fan for the cabin. They don’t have to take up much space and can provide some ventilation in stuffy rooms. The noise can also drown out the volume of people making noise in the hallways or adjacent cabins. This model is about $30 on Amazon.

A little tip: Your ship will usually have seasickness pills set out for passengers to take if the water gets rough. However, we would suggest bringing your own. Everyone has different tolerances for how much motion causes them to get sick. You also don’t want to be reliant on the cruise ship having seasick pills if you start to feel queasy. Bring your own ( boxes are $7 ) and take some at the first sign of symptoms (or even before).

Night Light

A dark, unfamiliar cabin on the interior of the ship… what could go wrong? Well, if you have to wake up in the middle of the night to use the restroom, there is a good chance your shins or toes will pay the price as you stumble around in the dark. A cheap night light doesn’t take up much room and can be worth its weight in gold.

As an alternative, you can also leave the bathroom light on and close the door. The gap at the bottom of the door will let out a little light.

Cellphone Dry Bag

Worried about your phone getting wet? One thing that’s also useful is one of these cell phone dry bags . They are made specifically for your phone. Just drop it in, close the clasps, and you have a secure way to keep your phone dry while still being able to use it. You can read our full review of this phone bag here .

You have to remember that the sun can hit from two angles. Of course, it can come from above, but the reflection off of the water and snow can be just as bright. To cover all your bases, be sure to pack a good pair of polarized sunglasses. These will cut down on glare while also blocking out UV rays. Prices can range wildly, but the pair above are just $16 on Amazon .

At nights — especially when the ship is sailing and there’s a breeze — it can get cold on the ship. It’s a good idea to pack along a warm hat, preferably one that will cover your ears. You may not need it all the time, but you’ll be thankful that you have for those times when it’s too cold to go out with your head uncovered. This one is just $10  and comes in lots of colors.

While you don’t need a big bulky scarf to stay warm, it’s still a good idea to bring along a little something to keep your neck and chest warm and covered. At nights when the ship is underway can be breezy. If you’re out on the deck without a scarf, you’ll wish you had one. This one is around $10 on Amazon

Chapstick/Lip Balm

It’s so small and simple, but easy to forget. With the wind and the sun, it’s easy to get chapped lips on your cruise. Bring along some lip balm — and a couple of spares — and carry them with you at all times.

Want to know the truth about wiping your backside on a cruise? It’s awful. The toilet paper supplied by the cruise line is the typical thin sheets you can almost see through. Let’s just say that even after a few wipes you still don’t feel clean.

The solution is bringing some disposable wipes to help finish the job. Even if your cruise is a short one, you’ll feel much better having them. One thing — even if they say they are flushable wipes, don’t put them down the toilet as they can cause issues with the ship’s plumbing. Instead, you can toss them in the trash can provided in the bathroom.

When you head to Alaska, you pack a lot more than just a few swimsuits and a hat. And when you are out and about, there is usually plenty to bring along with you like a camera, extra layers, and more.

That’s why we suggest a lightweight collapsible backpack. Unpacked, it takes up barely any room. However, it can unfold to hold a ton of things from changes of clothes to sunscreen and more. Best of all, this particular sack is just $20 on Amazon .

Plastic Poncho

Know those $2 plastic rain ponchos that come in a little pouch? They are a great item to pack for your cruise. With the weather changing constantly depending on where you are, a lightweight plastic pouch can be a lifesaver if you’re caught in a shower. Plus, it can be a good thing to help keep camera equipment or other valuables dry in a pinch.

Wicking Socks

If you want to keep your feet warm, you also need to keep them dry. Wet feet get exposed to cold air and make it tough to feel toasty. A good pair of wicking socks can help pull moisture from your feet while out hiking, keeping you feeling comfy on you excursion.

Basic Items You Should Also Pack for Alaska

Most people know that they need to pack some pants and warm clothes when they head to Alaska, so for the most part we’ve focused the list above on those items that aren’t as well-known.

Need some ideas for basic items to bring as well? You can use the list below as a starting point:

• Long-sleeve shirts
• Shorts (for warm days)
• Walking/Hiking Shoes
• Flip-Flops (for around the ship)
• Prescriptions
• Over the counter medicines (ibuprofen, acetaminophen, stomach medicine) 
• Toiletries (Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, etc.)
• Clothes for formal night
• Bottle of wine/champagne (allowed on cruises, don’t forget a corkscrew!)
• Books/magazines
• Travel documents (passport & boarding docs)
• Credit/Debit Cards
• Phone/Tablet Chargers

As well, you can see our Alaska cruise packing checklist here . This will give you a broad outline of all the possible things you might want to pack for your cruise.

What You Won’t Need or Can’t Pack for an Alaskan Cruise

Sometimes packing for a cruise isn’t just about what to bring, but also what not to bring. On the ship there are a number of rules about what you can’t bring, and there are also a number of things that you don’t need because the ship provides them already. 

Hair Dryer Yes, you can bring a hair dryer if you want to, but it’s not needed. Every cabin has a built-in hair dryer, similar to a hotel room. So if you’re the type that has a fancy hair dryer that you can’t live without, then you can bring it… but most people will be perfectly fine leaving it at home.

Towels Of course, your cabin will have towels in the room but many people wonder about larger beach towels for hanging out by the pool or hot tub on their cruise. We’re happy to say that these are provided on the cruise ship as well, so no need to bring them from home. 

Alcohol/Beer Yes, you can bring wine or champagne in small quantities on your Alaskan cruise, but nothing else alcoholic is allowed aboard. That means leave the liquor and beer at home; you’ll have to purchase it on the ship if you want a drink. You can buy bottles in port, but they will be held until the end of the cruise and returned the night before you arrive home.

Items that Could Start a Fire We know that many people like their own coffee pot from home or want to bring a clothes iron to smooth out wrinkles or like to bring a candle or incense to make the room smell nice. As a rule of thumb, if it heats up or has a flame, then you can’t bring it. There are a few exceptions like hair straighteners, curling irons, and cigarette lighters. Those items are ok.

Frequently Asked Questions About Packing for Alaska Cruises

Do I need to pack a swimsuit? Yes, we suggest bringing a swimsuit on our cruise. Remember that much of your time is actually going to be spent on the cruise ship. While there are pools, there are also hot tubs. So bring your swimsuit and you can take a dip in the hot tub or even lay out if the weather is warmer and sunny. The good thing is that swimsuits don’t take a lot of room in luggage, so even if you don’t use it, it’s not a big deal.

Can I bring a hair straightener or curling iron? Despite the ban on items that heat up, items like hair straighteners and curling irons are allowed on the ship. That said, it’s a good idea to be extra careful using them and never leave them plugged in.

How much luggage can I bring? One of the great things about cruising is that rules around how much luggage you can bring are relaxed . There are no fees for your bags like you might find on an airline and there are no real limits on how many bags you can bring.

That said, we suggest keeping things reasonable. Remember, anything you pack you will need to get from home to the cruise port. It’s better to pack a little lighter and have an easier time handing all of your bags.

Have other suggestions of things to pack? Let us know in the comments below!

Popular: 39 Useful Things to Pack (17 You Wouldn't Think Of)

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What to Pack for an Alaska Cruise Plus Packing List

By: Sherry Laskin · Updated On: May 30, 2023

What to pack for an Alaska cruise, especially for first-timers, can be a little challenging. Maybe your Alaska cruise is on a small ship adventure cruise like Alaskan Dream Cruises or UnCruise Adventures. Or maybe you prefer a larger cruise ship like Holland America’s Eurodam , or Royal Caribbean’s Radiance of the Seas .

Here is what you should pack for an Alaska cruise. It’s also what I pack for every Alaska cruise. Plus, I lived in Alaska for almost two years and own everything on this list. 

Also in this article is a printable packing list to get you on your way to the Last Frontier. 

In This Post...

What to Pack for an Alaska Cruise 

When figuring what to pack for a cruise to Alaska, it’s all about knowing what you plan to do on your incredible adventure to the 49th state. 

Will you spend time pre- or post-cruise in Alaska, Seattle or Vancouver? What sort of shore excursions do you plan to do? 

And of course, the month you choose to cruise Alaska can be significant to determine what you’ll pack.

My point is, most likely you’ll need to pack cruise clothes and land clothes. And hopefully fit it all into one suitcase. 

Plus a carry-on and/or backpack for electronics, toiletries, documents and meds. It only took me two cruises to Alaska to figure out what I should have packed…or left at home.

I’ve cruised Alaska up and down the Inside Passage at least a dozen times plus four cross-Gulf voyages. My cruises to Alaska happened in every month of the cruise season. How to pack for an Alaska cruise in still-chilly May, in hot and buggy mid-July or possibly rainy September, all follow my basic packing guidelines. 

I hope my Alaska cruise packing list and tips help you to be prepared for one of the most incredible cruise and land experiences of a life time. 

Your Alaska Cruise Itinerary Can Determine What to Pack

Inside passage cruise .

The overwhelming majority of ships for seven-night round-trip cruises to Alaska depart from either Seattle or Vancouver, Canada. A one-week Alaska cruise spends two days northbound and the same back plus three or four Alaska cruise ports, all in the Inside Passage. 

On any seven-night round-trip Inside Passage cruise from the Lower 48, you won’t have the opportunity to spend a couple of days in Alaska before or after your cruise.

On the other hand, choose a small ship adventure cruise and your ship will probably embark and disembark in either Juneau or Sitka. In this case, you can easily spend a couple of days on land before or after your cruise.

Alaska Cross-Gulf Cruise

These Alaska cruises can also be seven nights with departures northbound from Vancouver and Seattle or southbound from Seward and Whittier, Alaska. A cross-Gulf cruise will give you the time to spend in Alaska’s interior before or after your cruise.

The clothes you’ll need can vary, too. Especially if you cruise early or late in the season in May or September.

My Alaska packing list covers everything you’ll need to pack for a 7-day Alaska cruise , like my Holland America Eurodam Inside Passage cruise. If your cruise is longer or you’ve chosen a cruise and tour, I also include how and what to pack. 

Basically, you would pack the same but plan on either sending out a load of laundry on the ship, doing a sink wash or hauling it into a town to a laundromat. But there’s more to know. 

Land Tour Plus Cruise (Cruise-Tour)

If you plan a cross-Gulf of Alaska cruise with a few days in Denali, Fairbanks or Anchorage (or all of them!) you’re probably going to need to pack a little differently than for just an Inside Passage cruise. 

For one thing, it can get fairly hot in the summer in Fairbanks and very drizzly and damp in Denali. That’s the thing about Alaska; the weather is unpredictable. 

Whatever Alaska cruise itinerary you choose, I’ve covered all of it in my Alaska packing list. I’ve also included a list of those incidental items that you might otherwise forget.

Read next: 21 Best Things to do in Sitka, Alask a

Let’s begin with the basics. What goes in your suitcase and why.

This post may contain affiliate links which won’t change your price but will share some commission.

Best clothes to pack for an alaska cruise.

It’s really important to remember that it is can be very chilly out on deck, especially at night. Then there’s the cold wind off the water and glacier visits. Brrr.

Even though your cruise ship will still have two formal nights, unless you’re on a luxury cruise, typical “formal” isn’t over the top on an Alaska cruise. Think dressy- or nice casual.

What Type of Pants Should You Pack?

Both men and women should pack at least one or two comfortable (but not torn) denim jeans. I also bring a pair of nice unfaded black jeans that can double as dress pants on formal nights. There should be enough room in your denim jean’s legs if you need to put on a pair of silk or silk-like long “underwear” underneath.

I have two pairs of these Long John’s sets , in black and beige. 

Last year, I also picked up a pair of stretchy black fleece-lined yoga/leggings pull-on pants at, of all places, Walgreens. They’re super comfortable, loose in the waist and look good enough to wear around the ship with a long tunic.

Those Walgreen’s leggings can also get you through a workout in the gym or walks around the deck. And they’re easy to wash in the sink. 

One pair of shorts is sufficient in case of a few warm days. Good and bad news about shorts. You’ll be comfortable on a warm day but a good target for those pesky Alaska mosquitoes, A.K.A the National Bird. Make sure they have pockets. Guys might want those longer cargo-type shorts. 

A pair of capri pants would still keep you cool and offer less real estate for mosquitoes to land. Just sayin’.

Formal Night Dinners on an Alaska Cruise

On formal nights in the main dining room or an upscale specialty restaurant, men can pair dark pants with a sport coat, shirt and and maybe a tie. A guy could even get away with wearing a nice pull-over sweater and maybe a collar peeking out over the neckline. Alaska cruises really are relaxed when it comes to dress-up nights. 

You’d be surprised how many people choose to eat at the Lido buffet on an Alaska cruise, especially on formal night. 

Note:  If the buffet is your preference, be prepared for a queue. Once you get the timing for when the buffet is the least crowded, it’ll be a nicer experience. 

Bring a swimsuit and cover-up, though you can use your bathrobe from your stateroom if there is one. If there isn’t a robe, your room attendant may be able to get one for you to use. 

If your ship doesn’t have a sliding glass dome over the pool, you may not need to pack a swimsuit at all. Then again, if you’re a spa person, bring one anyway. Sandals or these thin, easy to pack flip-flops are always good for the pool and don’t take up much space.

Though the sun was shining and there was a warm breeze, it was still too cold for most passengers to get into the pool. This cruise was in August.

Should I Pack a Dress for Formal Night on an Alaska Cruise?

If you’re simply more comfortable wearing a dress on formal night, by all means pack a dress. If so, you might want to bring a pair of stockings or tights for a bit of warmth on your stroll around the deck.

Again, if you’re on one of the mainstream cruise lines like Carnival, Royal Caribbean or NCL, then if past experience holds well, there were not men in tuxedos or women in formal gowns.

However, some people still love to dress up on formal night. But like I said earlier, it’s less common on Alaska cruises. Long days spent touring, abundant daylight and getting your body clock adjusted all lean towards casual. 

Bring a couple of dressy lightweight scarves to spruce up and change up your look, especially if you’re only bringing one black dress. Or buy a neutral shade pashmina if your dress is sleeveless. I use mine as an evening wrap as well as my outdoor scarf. You can roll it up, and it won’t take up much room in the suitcase.

Tops for Layering

I’m sure you’ve heard this before about packing for Alaska: It’s all about wearing layers. Here’s where I have the most fun.

Comfy T-Shirts. Definitely bring two or three. I wear them under sweaters, to sleep in and to the gym. Multi-use items for sure. 

Or, if you think you’ll buy one in Alaska, only pack one from home. Who doesn’t go all the way to Alaska and not buy a T-shirt!

If it’s a chilly, damp or drizzly day, instead of a T-shirt under my sweater or sweatshirt I wear my long-sleeve silk-like top. They’re amazingly insulating. 

Similar to the one above with the Long John’s, this is a mock turtleneck top for when I need something to keep my neck warmer. I bought one in black (and it works for dressier evenings with the pashmina) and one in purple, not expensive at all). 

They’re thin enough so I can still bend my elbows when wearing under a sweater. Both this mock turtle and the scoop neck silk tops are handy to have and won’t break your budget.

Same goes for silk leggings (Long John’s) to wear under jeans. You’ll forget you’re wearing them. They’re great to keep you warm, especially if you choose one of the helicopter tours to a glacier…in early or late season.

What I Wear in Alaska on a Shore Excursion

Here’s what I might wear on a shore excursion in the Inside Passage, especially to Mendenhall Glacier in Juneau. Up close at Mendenhall Glacier may not only be icy-chilly but there’s also spray off the water.

First, I layer a silk or silk-like top underneath a crew neck or turtleneck sweater or sweatshirt (not too heavy). Then…

Over the lightweight sweater or sweatshirt, I’ll either wear a thin, loose-fitting waterproof rain jacket or my usual water repellent puffy jacket with hood , depending on if it’s a sunny or rainy day.

Amazon Essentials Women’s Lightweight Water-Resistant Packable Puffer Vest

This is almost a must-have item to pack. It comes with its own little carrying bag to squish the vest into for travel. You can also loop the little satchel around your carry-on bag handle. 

Plus, puffy vests are great to toss on in the morning to go to the Lido buffet or for a summer’s morning walk around the deck with a cup of coffee.

Make sure that it has outside zip pockets and maybe an inside pocket or two. You can put your room card in the zippered pocket and not worry about it falling out when you sit down for breakfast, too. 

These are great for a multitude of reasons. You can wear them over anything and at any time. Get tunic tops for Alaska with enough room in the arms so you can wear a layer or two underneath. That’s another reason why I love my tunic crew-neck tops – they’re great for layering. 

This is the tunic top I bought for my Alaska cruises. Actually, I bought two of them, one in navy and the other the black and white buffalo plaid. The tunic neckline isn’t stifling and has plenty of room for the mock or turtleneck top underneath without feeling constricted.

In the evening, you can dress up a dark colored tunic with a signature necklace (costume jewelry only, please) or a scarf and those nice black jeans. It’s Alaska! No need to get decked out to the nines. Unless of course you want to and your suitcase agrees.

I have two cozy turtleneck sweaters that I really love but are way too bulky so they stay home. Even putting them into plastic bags and squishing out the excess air, I won’t bring them with me.

Instead, I found and will bring two lighter-weight knit crew neck sweaters. They were on sale at Old Navy for $18. I’ll almost always wear the silky mock turtleneck underneath. When my neck gets cold, the rest of me freezes. Plus a scarf.

And I’m sure I’ll end up buying a flannel shirt or a knit sweater somewhere along the way. Pack less – buy more.

In addition to my usual one or two pashminas, I always pack a warm scarf. On days when a heavier weight scarf would be overkill, I’ll just wear a high-neck top and then if the weather suddenly gets warm, I can open my jacket and be comfortable.

So in addition to one or two thinner dressy scarves, bring that neutral colored pashmina . I’ve even used it to cover my legs on a particularly cold and windy whale watching tour.

Accessories to Pack for an Alaska cruise

You know…those extras that are sometimes forgotten…until you absolutely need them. So I’ve added these essentials to the packing list.

Don’t leave home without at least one. The easiest and most packable is a knitted ski cap (beanie) or a floppy 100% wool beret. They can scrunch up and fit into your pocket if you get too warm.

Also, for both men and women, a good ol’ baseball cap comes in handy. I usually buy this on the ship or in Alaska and have a souvenir at the same time.

Don’t worry if your hat is not waterproof. Your jacket (see below) will have a rainproof hood to pop over it.

YES! A necessity. And…so you don’t have to constantly take them on and off to take photos with your iPhone or Android, I really suggest device-enabled gloves.

When you’re out on deck or on a tour, putting your gloves on and off to take a photo is a real pain. Easy to lose a glove, too. To solve this problem, I ordered these gloves to use with my iPhone. I’ve always loved Isotoners so that’s why I went for the more expensive gloves with device-touch enabled finger tips.

Socks/Tights

Smartwool Hiking Socks

I also bought a 3-pack of black socks, once again at Walgreens. Black tights I bought at Target. I have a pair of sheer stockings/tights for dress-up to wear with the one black dress that I always bring along. I call it my cruise uniform. 

This is the toughest part of my packing dilemma. I’ve already mentioned sandals/flipflops. What about formal night? 

In an emergency last year, I found a great-fitting pair of 2″ suede-like black dress shoes at Old Navy. They’ve become a new part of my cruise uniform. They work with my black jeans or dress on formal night.

Next, you really should bring already-broken-in hiking shoes with a tread. First, I bought Merrells. They weren’t comfortable for me in the arch so back they went.

Then I bought this pair of Keen hiking shoes – with “Alaska Blue” trim! I love love love these – they’re like wearing comfy slippers. Plus, they’re waterproof leather.

KEEN Women’s Hiking Boots with Alaska Blue trim, of course.  

Also pack one pair of sneakers or super-comfortable walking shoes. If you can get by with one, pick the sneakers. Just make sure they’re broken in, have tread and not totally mesh.

Boots for Alaska

Rubber boots. Or as they’re called up north, Alaska sneakers! Actually, they’re Xtratufs. Those brown rubber boots with the light colored trim on the edges. You’ll probably see people on the airplane wearing them when returning to Alaska. 

If you don’t mind missing a couple of hours exploring Alaska, wait until your first port on your Alaska cruise to buy boots. Head straightaway to the nearest shop where XtraTufs are sold. Google it when your ship docks. 

I bought my first pair of Xtratufs (the ones above) at Murray Pacific Hardware Store on Water Street in Ketchikan – a 15 minute walk from the downtown dock.

For women, be sure to buy the Women’s Size and definitely add a wooly liner to the boot. The salesperson will know which liner to choose. 

I wear a 9 1/2 shoe. My XtraTufs are a Women’s 10 plus the liner. Or you can save time and buy your boots now before you leave home. If you wear them on Alaska Air, you’ll fit right in with the locals!

Not only will you be able to slosh through mud puddles and step through little streams and squishy bogs, you’ll get comments from the locals, who will immediately assume you’re Alaskan. Or in my case, a Laskin. Sorry. Worst pun in the world.

I take a belt. Why I don’t know. Only my jeans have belt loops.

Outerwear for Alaska’s Unpredictable Weather

Rainproof pants.

This is a biggie. Last year my daughter, who happens to love hiking and the outdoors, joined me on one of my Alaska cruises. She brought her Gore-tex rain pants.

I chuckled when I saw those baggie bottoms, not realizing how essential they’d be on a hike in the rain.

Rainproof Lined Windbreaker with Hood

This is the best and least expensive of my Alaska-wear. I have this waterproof rain jacket . It’s basic, loose-fitting with room to layer underneath. 

Not lined, it sits just below my hip and has a hood, a waist with a draw-cord and a protected zipper. And totally waterproof zip pockets, too. I can wear my silk undershirt plus a medium-weight sweater underneath. And…still bend my elbows. But on my next cruise to Alaska, I’ll pack those rain pants, too.

Down- or Synthetic-filled Hip-Length Jacket with Hood

A must. I’m on my third down-filled puffy jacket . I’m just fussy and I like this one best. It has a visible hood and two inside pockets as well as two outside with zippers. It’s super light-weight jacket and has its own little carry-sack.

My favorite puffy jacket …with plenty of pockets and a hood.

If it’s warm when I travel, I put it into a freezer ziplock bag and squish the air out of it. It takes up even less room that way. And it sits at mid-hip length. It’s also water resistant (not waterproof) and a windbreaker.

Miscellaneous Stuff to Pack for Alaska

Small folding umbrella.

Southeast Alaska and the Inside Passage is in a rainforest, did you know that? It’s the 17-million acre Tongass National Forest. The Tongass is part of the largest temperate rainforest on earth.

Repel Small Folding and Windproof Travel Umbrella

On the other hand, rain in Alaska comes with wind. Horizontal rain is common and can quickly turn your umbrella inside out. That said, when there’s a constant drizzle, a small umbrella like this one comes in handy. And pack those waterproof rain pants and jacket if it’s windy.

You don’t have to spend a fortune but a decent pair of binoculars will really enhance your chances to see wildlife. Get small ones that you can stuff into a sneaker when you pack or into a little corner of your suitcase. I travel with Nikon’s small, folding waterproof binoculars . It fits in your hand, weighs less than a pound and can easily fit into a backpack.

Nikon Trailblazer Waterproof Binoculars

For me for Alaska, a regular backpack to haul on a day trip is too heavy and bulky. I bought two of these Bago Daypacks …one in hot pink for the Caribbean and a black and grey one for Alaska. It folds up into itself for packing.

Bago Packable Backpack

Don’t Leave Home Without These

Whether or not your Alaska cruise begins or ends in San Francisco or Seattle, you’re going to need a passport if you want to leave the ship for a tour in Vancouver or Victoria, British Columbia, CA, usually a required service call when there’s not a pandemic.

Or if you or your companion become ill…you might need to fly home from Vancouver. You’ll need a passport to fly back to the USA.

Make a color copy of your passport and keep in a separate place, in case you lose the original.

Plus, if your Alaska cruise begins or ends in Vancouver, you’re going to need a passport for Vancouver.

Read More:  Why You Should Have a Passport for an Alaska Cruise

Medications.

Always bring a few days’ extra pills and keep with you in your handbag or carry-on. Do not pack any medications in your checked luggage.

Insect repellent

Not my favorite item. For the entire six-weeks I spent in Alaska last August and September, I didn’t get one mosquito bite. I was warned that they’re nicknamed the state bird, but I guess was lucky. 

I was told anything with DEET is what you need. Personally, I’d rather wear long sleeves and pants than use bug spray. But I’ll pack bug spray on my next cruise to Alaska. Actually, for a Caribbean cruise nowadays, too. Dengue fever, you know.

Sunglasses 

A must. And if you’re doing any really active excursions, think about attaching a sunglass strap so you don’t lose them.

Another product that I’m not thrilled to use, but a necessary one, especially on a glacier hike or trail walk.

Electronics to Pack for an Alaska Cruise

Bring a camera.

If you don’t have a camera or the one you have is really old, this cruise is a good time to invest in a new one. An Alaska cruise is really an unforgettable experience and you will want to preserve those precious memories. 

Don’t wait until the day before you leave to buy it and learn how to use it. Allow a few weeks to play with the camera. 

Take photos in your home and outside and get used to different lighting conditions. Get a feel for your new camera. Be sure to pack the manual, too.

I’ve been using my trusty Nikon 5600 for three years and I’m really happy with the results. The 5600 came with two kit lenses, 18-55 and 70-300mm. 

I used the 70-300mm lens with this Joby Gorilla travel-size tripod for a DSLR camera, to capture the Northern Lights on an Inside Passage cruise. Here are the results.

Camera Battery Charger and a Second Battery

Plus, bring along some spare regular AA batteries. You never know.

Camera Lenses

If you already have a camera, think about bringing a zoom lens. If you don’t have one and can afford it, buy one. Why? To capture close-up images of the glaciers, wildlife foraging along the shore and on and on. 

l love my iPhone and take thousands of photos on every trip. But I grab my “real” camera with the zoom already attached, whenever someone yells, “whale/eagle/bear at 2:00 o’clock!”

When you are out and about on a shore excursion, toss a zip-lock plastic bag that can fit the camera into your day pack. You never know when you’ll get caught in the rain. 

So that you aren’t lugging a case full of lens, you could just bring an 18mm-300mm and use only that one for your entire trip. If that seems a bit too cumbersome for a walking around lens, you could bring two lenses: an 18mm-55mm and a 70mm-300mm. That’s what I do. 

Get one that can adapt to use with your smart phone and a camera. I always travel with my Joby Gorilla Pod for tabletop use that I mentioned above. 

I will also bring my lightweight Manfrotto travel tripod to set up on deck or to take on a nature walk shore excursion. Be sure to buy a smartphone adapter , too.

Memory Cards

Do not scrimp on a memory card. Get a brand name like Sandisk or Lexar. I’d suggest two or three higher grade cards. I bought two Sandisk Extreme Pro – 32 GB cards. One card might be enough for most cruisers, though. Just be sure to back up your photos at least every other night. Speaking of which…

Photo Storage

Don’t take a chance of losing those amazing Alaska memories. Whether you travel with a laptop or external drive, get in the habit of transferring and backing-up your day’s photos before you go to bed. Make sure you bring their cables, too.

LaCie 4T Rugged External Hard Drive

Emergency Charger

Extras to Bring on an Alaska Cruise

Yes, there are a lot of these out there. I’ve become a fan of Hydro Flask. Why? Their coffee mug (with the lid on) keeps hot beverages hotter longer than Yeti, and cold beverages colder for just a little longer, too. Plus, the company is wonderful to deal with if you need a replacement or have any questions.

Why pack a mug for an Alaska cruise? I love to have my morning (or afternoon) coffee on deck, breathe in the crisp Alaska air, watch the steam rise from the mug and search the shoreline for wildlife. 

Coffee or tea in a cruise ship’s coffee mug just doesn’t hold the heat and doesn’t have a lid. So I pack my trusty Hydro Flask coffee mug on every cruise.

Just do everyone onboard a favor:  when filling your mug at the coffee station, keep it away from the spigot. Or fill up a ship’s coffee cup and then transfer it to yours.

Freezer Bags

Always bring three or four zip-lock freezer bags . I bring two of the large size so, as I mentioned, I can pop my camera into one in case of rain. There’s always a use for small sandwich-sized bags, too.

Travel Alarm Clock

I know my iPhone has a clock and an alarm. But recently I started to always pack this basic, super-simple folding small travel alarm clock with me. 

All it has is an alarm and a digital clock face. There’s a disable switch so the alarm won’t accidentally ring if it gets bumped in your suitcase. Now I don’t have to double-check that my iPhone alarm is set every day or that I’ll hear it if the phone volume is off (yes you will).

I usually sleep with the stateroom bathroom light on and the door closed. Just enough light is emitted around the crack under the door. But it’s so darn bright when you walk in during the night. So I bought this little plug-in night light , one for home and one for travel. It stays on all the time and doesn’t blind you when you walk into a dark bathroom at 4am.

There you have it. Everything you need to pack for an Alaska cruise. I hope my Alaska packing tips are helpful! 

Have a wonderful time! If I’ve missed something, please leave a note in the comments below.

Here’s your Printable Alaska Cruise Packing List 

More alaska travel ideas and inspiration check out these articles…, cruise port guide:  12 best things to do in ketchikan, alaska, cruise port guide:  21 best things to do and see in sitka, alaska, take a ride on the white pass & yukon railroad in skagway, please pin and share.

I’m the editor and creator of CruiseMaven.com, a solo traveler cruising the world on waves and wheels, collecting recipes along the way.  I hope my articles and photos entertain, advise and inspire you to travel the world without flying.  Take a breath…stop for a local meal and a glass of wine along the way.

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Sherry Laskin says

September 13, 2021 at 9:21 pm

Hi Laura, Thank you SO much for your kind comment. I’m really happy to know that it’s been a help for you for your Alaska cruise. Everything I listed is what I bought for my cruises to Alaska as well as my 18 months living in Sitka. Have a wonderful cruise! And thank you again for reading my Alaska packing article and taking the time (away from packing!) to write your comment. Sherry

September 11, 2021 at 11:51 pm

Thank you for taking time to write this great list! It’s whet my whistle to be well-prepared for my trip! Its a week from today so I better get cracking!

July 19, 2021 at 2:07 pm

Hi Becky, Thank you very much for taking the time to read through my Alaska packing article. Today in Sitka it was in the 50s and 60s which means Juneau isn’t much different. The further north you go, the chillier it gets. That said, there were September days in the 80s and full sun. You didn’t mention the cruise ship that you will be on but…I do know that sometimes (as on Holland America Eurodam) you can tell the front desk that you’d like to be awakened if the aurora borealis begins. I do hope you get to see the lights. We were very lucky for August. Have a wonderful, fabulous Alaska cruise! And thank you again for writing your note! I’m glad you found the packing list to be helpful.

Becky Hobson says

July 17, 2021 at 12:43 pm

I just wanted to let you know this packing information is great help for my upcoming Alaskan trip. The photos were helpful too as they gave me a better idea of how cold it will be. I hoe we gay as lucky to see a rare August aurora!

September 15, 2019 at 5:43 pm

Hi Stephanie, Thank you very much for your kind comments and for reading my article about Alaska. Disney to Alaska, especially for your first time, sounds wonderful! Be sure and set aside some extra funds for shore excursions. Have a great trip and thank you again. Sherry

stephanie aispuro says

September 14, 2019 at 11:49 pm

Great tips! Loved reading this, we just booked our first cruise to Alaska on the Disney Wonder. We have done Disney before but the Mexican Riviera and Caribbean. This will be our first venture to Alaska. And at a loss as what was essential. Love the links you posted, helpful.

April 19, 2019 at 2:21 pm

Hi Rochelle, Thanks for stopping by and reading my Alaska packing guide. I have not cruised to Alaska aboard the Bliss, but I have cruised the Inside Passage on a few other cruise lines. I’ve written an article about 21 Things to do in Sitka if you happen to go there. I’m also working on what to do in several other ports as well as the interior plus more Alaska travel tips. Please check back or subscribe to my newsletter so you don’t miss anything. Thanks again! Sherry

Rochelle Sajdak says

April 17, 2019 at 11:27 am

Hi, I just found your blog and there’s a lot of good info! Wondering if you have been on the Norwegian Bliss Alaskan cruise? If so, any tips? Excursion suggestions? Thanks!

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Ideal Alaska Cruise Packing List for 2024 (+Printable PDF Checklist)

Are you wondering what things to pack for a cruise to Alaska?

I’ve got you covered with this all-inclusive “ what to pack for a cruise to Alaska ” Packing List! 

You can click the links to  shop right from here , or, scroll to the end for a printable version of the Alaska Cruise Packing List.

What to Pack on a 7-day Cruise to Alaska?

Taking an Alaskan Cruise is an epic adventure that everyone should get the chance to experience. 

The rugged terrain and wild sense of adventure that Alaska inspires are sure to thrill even the most conservative traveler. 

With that being said, the weather, the wilderness, and the unpredictability of Alaska offer a unique challenge to the age-old question “What should I bring on an Alaskan Cruise?”

I struggled for sure the first time I traded my typical  Caribbean Cruise Packing list for an Alaskan Cruise. 

I’ve created this list so you don’t have to stress out about you what to pack for a Cruise to Alaska. 

What to bring to an Alaskan Cruise: Important Documents

Bringing the correct documents is very important when you begin to pack for a cruise to Alaska. 

You don’t want to end up not being able to go on your trip! 

Cruise lines are very strict about the documentation needed to board. It’s important to check the requirements carefully. 

Also, your Alaska Cruise will have a stop in Canada. 

This means there are even more requirements, such as passengers with DUIs or who are behind in child support will not be able to  visit Canada on your Alaska  Cruise, so be sure and check to make sure you are compliant before you go! 

You’ll also likely need to fill out the  ArriveCAN  form before you depart.

• Identification. You’ll need either a valid passport (with 6 months at least before expiration) OR a valid driver’s license PLUS an original birth certificate. A passport is the easiest.
• Vaccination card (this may change, but for now, it is what it is). Here is a  cute holder  to keep all of your documents together.
• Credit Card for expenses. Let your bank know you are traveling ahead of time.
• Cruise boarding pass. Either on the cruise app or printed
• Luggage tags are printed (don’t attach them until after your flight). I love these  luggage tag holders  for cruising.
• Flight boarding pass, digital or printed
• Travel insurance  info is either printed or downloaded so you can retrieve it even if you don’t have service.
• Receipts or confirmations for your  booked excursions , either printed or digitally saved.

Never Travel without Insurance! Find the best policy by clicking here.

What clothes to pack for a Cruise to Alaska

When you begin to pack for your Cruise to Alaska you’ll need to think about being prepared for all different types of weather. 

Layers are the best bet for your trip. Bring lightweight layers so you can transition warm days to cool evenings.  

Extra socks and dry shoes are important to pack for your cruise to Alaska if you are doing any excursions that might leave your feet wet.

I use packing cubes to help me stay organized and keep me from overpacking. Packing cubes were total game changers for me!

What to wear every day on an Alaskan Cruise

• Underwear , bras , and some  long underwear  to use as a base layer under your clothes
• Socks (bring some merino wool socks for warmth ) and bring a few extras to change into if you get wet in port.
• T-shirts , long sleeve t-shirts, sweatshirts (layering is key in Alaska!)
• Lightweight jac ket – These are great for being lightweight and easy to pack. They add warmth without adding a lot of bulk. A fleece jacket is perfect for layering. 
• Pair of jeans (1-2)
• Waterproof pants  depending on what you will be doing. I wore mine kayaking and it was nice to stay extra dry.
• Bathing suit for using the pool and hot tub
• Workout clothes
• Tennis shoes for walking around, flip-flops if you plan on using the pool or hot tubs, waterproof shoes for port days, or waterproof hiking boots if that’s your plan

Looking for epic excursions at a good price? Check this out! 

What to wear to dinner on a Cruise to Alaska

Some cruises are fancier than others and will require you to dress more for dinner. 

Nearly every cruise line has at least one formal night on cruises under 5 days and 2 formal nights on cruises over 5 nights. 

One  tip for first-time  cruisers is to join a Facebook group for your cruise, this helps you learn how formal people are planning on being, and pick up on any events or special tips for your sailing. 

The best way to find these groups by searching Facebook like this ” Ship name+ date of sailing” For example for my cruise to Alaska, I would have typed in “Majestic Princess August 24, 2021.

Disney Cruises to Alaska may have certain theme nights, where the cast and guests can all dress up. Check the Facebook groups for this info! 

I recommend bringing a cardigan or shawl for ladies, as the dining rooms can be chilly as well as the walk to and from dinner. 

• Formal dress
• A Couple of semi-formal dresses for dinner could also do slacks and a nice sweater or shirt
• Dress shoes
• Men’s button-up dress shirt , jacket, tie
• Men’s slacks
• Dress socks

Accessories to pack on an Alaskan Cruise

• Reading glasses if needed
• Cross body purse
• Backpack  to take to port and excursions
• Dry bag  if you plan on kayaking or fishing
• Warm hat, or ball cap
• Lanyard for ship card

Toiletries to Pack for a Cruise to Alaska

Think of the things you use every day and be sure to include them in your packing. 

All cruise lines will provide toiletries such as soap and shampoo, but if you are picky like me, bring your own. 

There will be medication such as Tylenol, tums, and bandaids on board but they can be expensive.

I usually bring a few of each of the common medications with me just in case. 

You can store them in a  pill container  rather than having to bring full bottles of each. 

Or just grab a few travel-size packages if you don’t have bottles at home.

• Toothbrush/floss/paste (charge your electric toothbrush before you leave)
• Daily Medications
• Hand sanitizer
• Body wash (there will be some in your cabin, but if you are particular about what you use bring your own)
• Lip Balm with SPF
• Shampoo/conditioner (there will be some, but if you want your favorite kind, bring it)
• Small first aid Kit
• Hairbrush/comb/hair ties
• Contacts and solution
• Razors/Shaving cream
• Makeup remover
• Feminine hygiene products
• Nail clippers/file
• Pepto Bismol
• Seasick  medication
• Poopouri  (you can thank me later )
• In the summer months, bringing insect repellent is a good idea too! 

Electronics to pack before Cruising to Alaska

You’ll have incredible opportunities to see wildlife on your Alaska Cruise, sometimes right from your balcony! 

If you don’t already have a telephoto lens for your camera, you can rent one for your vacation! 

I did this and it was a wonderful way to have a great lens without investing a ton of money. 

• Cell Phone and charger
• Camera/memory card/ extra battery/ charger/ tripod for capturing incredible Alaska cruise photos! 
• Curling iron / flat iron
• E-Reader , be sure to have an active subscription and downloaded books! You can try Audible for free and get 2 free books here!
• Power strips  (non-surge protectors) may not be necessary on newer ships, but older ships don’t have many outlets in the cabins.
• Go Pro  if you use one. I really loved this  GoPro hat  that helped me be hands-free on our kayaking excursion! (side note,  kayaking to Mendenhall Glacier  was one of my all-time favorite shore excursions!)

Alaska Packing List: Miscellaneous items

• Guide books
• Reusable Water Bottle

Bring a carry-on bag and keep your essentials in it.  Include any medications you need, sun protection , and a bathing suit if you want to swim.  Your luggage will be delivered to your room in the evening, so keep anything you might need before that with you in a carryon. 

There you have it! That is everything you need to pack for a cruise to Alaska. 

Bring a great attitude, and a sense of adventure and you are all set to go!

You should also read: ‣ Juneau Cruise Port ‣ Sitka Cruise Port ‣ Ketchikan Cruise Port ‣ Icy Strait Point

Alaska Cruise Packing Checklist

Now that you know what to pack on a 7-day cruise, you can check “pack for a cruise” off your to-do list and move on to more fun tasks! 

You can download a free Alaska cruise ship packing list printable ⤵

Alaska Cruise Packing List

Download a free printable packing guide.

It’s all yours!

Check your email for your list (Check your spam box if you don’t see it)

Bon Voyage!

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10 comments.

You have a very thorough list, Chantelle! I still haven’t been to Alaska and really want to visit. It’s good to know that packing layers is the best option, and to bring a few formal outfits for certain dinners on the cruise. I never would’ve thought that Facebook Groups would be such an important resource, but I’ll keep that in mind for all my cruises going forward!

I agree that a rain jacket and rain pants are must-have items- It rained often on our Alaskan cruise and we didn’t have to stay in because we had them!

Great comprehensive list!

We did not need big spray but it also was rainy season when we were there. You will likely need it early in the season. And yes, the poopurri is a must! Lol

We were surprised with how much we had to pack when we did an Alaska cruise. While we could layer up when it was hot, we got surprised by several days of warmer weather. And we definitely needed our rain gear. A great list to keep you organized for packing.

Interesting! We were supposed to be going on a road trip to Alaska in our RV in June 2020. Well, that never happened! We have just sold our RV so intend to explore Alaska differently, possibly by cruise ship. Your poopouri comment made me laugh! Never heard of it before, but will be sure to remember. Did you find that you needed bug spray, or was it not an issue on the ship?

What a perfect list for a cruise to Alaska!

Looks like the perfect list for a cruise to Alaska…something I’d love to do! Layering does seem key.

Awesome! Let me know if I can help in anyway, or if you have questions as you plan

I came accross this right on time! We are just starting to plan our cruise yo Alaska. Great information!

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What to Pack for Your Alaska Cruise: The Ultimate Packing List

Published: october 13, 2023.

Home » Travel Tips » What to Pack for Your Alaska Cruise: The Ultimate Packing List

Packing for an Alaska cruise is nearly as important as boarding the ship. If you want an unforgettable Alaska cruise, it’s essential to pack appropriately. Poor packing could lead to uncomfortable consequences, from shivering in the rain to missing out on experiences and excursions.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll unpack what to pack for an Alaska cruise, covering practical and personal necessities. Follow these tips, and you’ll be well-equipped, no matter if you’re cruising in the height of the summer’s Midnight Sun warmth in July and August or during the cooler days of May and September; if you’re taking a preferred 7-day Alaska cruise, or something shorter or longer.

So, let’s dive in!

Alaska Cruise Packing Checklist and Tips From the Alaska Tours Team

Alaska cruises are as popular as ever for travelers seeking out some of the state’s greatest attractions while riding in smooth-and-steady seaward style. The cruise curiosity spike isn’t surprising for regulars, who love the unique experience. However, maximizing any cruise time comes with preparation, from booking the perfect trip to filling out your Alaska cruise essentials list.

The trusted travel pros at Alaska Tours appreciate the Alaska cruise ship travel attraction. The team of experts plan and match clients with their ideal cruise, from the opulence of Holland America’s fleet , the boutique vibes of small ship cruises on yachts , or the excitement of adventure cruises . And they help you sift through many on- and off-ship excursions and destinations.

Sometimes, the journey is the destination. A trip through Southeast Alaska’s iconic Inside Passage is the most popular Alaska cruise. It’s a genuinely mind-blowing ride filled with glaciers, landscapes, wildlife and activities, as well as Alaska Native heritage and Gold Rush history in distinct port communities.

No matter the cruise, with Alaska Tours handling logistics and acting as the go-to source for cruise-related advice, passengers can quickly immerse themselves in their Alaska cruise experience. They’re prepared for their trip, and that prep starts before leaving home by creating an Alaska cruise packing checklist.

Alaska Cruise Packing List Essentials

There’s a balance between packing particulars and considering big-picture factors every passenger strikes while drawing up their Alaska packing list for a fantastic cruise. This section provides the building blocks on what to pack for your Alaska cruise for a memorable and comfortable voyage.

Key Clothing Items

Among the most unpredictable aspects of Alaska life is its varying and often quickly changing weather conditions. Anyone taking an Alaska cruise, especially longer trips with numerous stops and excursions, must pack clothing suitable for that range of conditions. Travelers could find crisp mornings and evenings fit for versatile jackets and pants, sunny afternoons that are hoodie-and-jeans worthy, and unexpected rain and wind that test the best jackets for Alaska cruises: windbreakers and waterproof gear.

Considering those conditions, below are some top things to keep in mind:

• Every clothing list should start with layers, the key to staying warm, comfortable and flexible in all Alaska cruise situations and destinations.
• Begin with moisture-wicking base layers, add insulating mid-layers, and top it off with dependable outerwear, including caps, hats and gloves.
• Layering is particularly important for long cruises, where you’ll encounter an array of elements. In fact, there’s no such thing as too much packing prep when you’re thinking of how to pack for a 7-day Alaska cruise.

Alaska cruise wear lists vary depending on cruise timing. Opt for moderate summer clothing on an Alaska cruise in August and the summer months leading up to it; pack for cooler shoulder season temperatures in May and September. Remember a cap, gloves, and a versatile scarf for chilly moments, even in summer. Trust us – warm wearables are valuable in all seasons, as rain showers and persistent winds sneak up.

Alaskans are all about versatile and durable dress, so casual attire is the norm. Follow their lead and pack comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for relaxation and exploration on and off-ship. If you plan on fine dining, a nice top and pants will do for dinner. And remember that many Alaska cruise ships have pools and hot tubs – if you’re down to take a dip, pack your favorite swimsuit.

A display of colourful insulated jackets

Footwear Choices

You might be on a cruise, but you’ll find yourself on your feet more than expected. You don’t want to miss anything.

• Pack casual walking shoes or slip-resistant deck shoes – or a pair of each, if possible – for strolling around-ship and in any of the port towns along the way and dining out and relaxing in your cabin.
• If you plan on spending a lot of time outside on the boat and onshore, you won’t regret upgrading to waterproof shoes.
• For serious shore excursions like hiking and trail walking, hiking boots are best bets, especially if they are waterproof. When selecting hiking boots, prioritize ankle support and sturdy soles. Before your trip, break in new shoes and hiking boots to minimize blisters and weary feet and legs.

Outdoor Gear

Part of the lure of Alaska travel is exploring its majestic outdoors. Even on an Alaska cruise, consider reliable, versatile outdoor gear a necessity.

Ultimately, what to wear on your Alaska cruise for complete comfort at all times boils down to a high-quality rain jacket, a lightweight winter coat, wind or rain pants, baseball hats, sun hats and other sun protection gear, and an umbrella for that infamous Southeast Alaska rain. This gear is worth its weight, along with a stocking cap and winter gloves. And don’t forget the most important Alaska cruise outfits packing strategy: layers, layers and more layers!

Cruise Cabin Essentials

No matter which cruise you pick, from short and sweet to astonishing 8-day Glacier Bay National Park Cruises , and no matter how much time you plan to spend wandering around the boat and onshore, your cabin is your sanctuary. It is your place to rest and reflect from an incredible day and charge up for the next day and a place to store your gear. Here are some tips for essential cruise items that will make your cabin feel like home.

Travel Luggage

Much like clothing, luggage options vary, and appropriate cruise luggage depends on personal preferences and the nature of your trip. Some travelers favor traditional suitcases with rugged wheels for packing space and convenience. Others swear by duffel bags for quick packing and easy storage. Backpacks offer versatility in many sizes. A combination of these options provides the best coverage, blending storage and mobility. And one of the most important factors when shopping for any type of luggage is its durability.

When selecting luggage, also consider its size in relation to your cabin. Research the cabin’s dimensions and storage capacity to ensure your clothing, gear, luggage and, of course, you and your travel companion, all fit cozily.

Irrespective of luggage choice, it’s important to pack efficiently. The simple approach to rolling clothing in your luggage will reduce wrinkles and maximize space.

Cabin Comfort

You can enhance your cabin comfort, functionality, and organization with just a few items. Some cruise cabins have limited electrical outlets, so a power strip for your device cords ensures your devices are fully charged daily. Nightlights help on dark Alaska spring and fall nights.

Use packing cubes and travel organizers to keep cabins cozy and tidy, make essential items easy to find and in order, and streamline dressing for any occasion.

Adventure Cruise Essentials

While trips like the Glacier Bay Adventure Cruise takes passengers to a magical Alaska area, some of the most memorable moments of an Alaska cruise trip take place off the boat on exciting shore excursions . No matter how you decide to explore, here are some essentials to pack.

Excursion Gear

Whether you plan on kayaking or hiking, most Alaska adventures require essential gear. A durable, versatile backpack or waterproof dry bag will keep your essential head-to-toe gear and snacks dry and nearby.

• Hikers understand the importance of boots, but some also love the handiness of trekking poles on their walks and climbs. Windbreakers or breathable waterproof rain jackets are also important for most excursions.
• Kayaking is a very popular option that gets paddlers closer to wildlife, coves and glaciers most often seen from a distance on cruise ships. Kayaking requires more specialized gear: a drysuit and water shoes to stay warm and comfy, and a dry bag to protect the rest of your gear.
• Wildlife excursions don’t demand as much variety as far as clothing goes – it’s more about staying comfortable and warm (layers!) as you’ll spend periods in one place looking for wildlife and other times traveling to and from those areas on small planes, small boats or four-wheelers.

Picture of a person’s feet wearing tan hiking boots by Lisa Fotios

Wildlife Viewing Gear

Wildlife viewing is a quintessential Alaska activity; imagine seeing a bear, whale, or moose in the water or wilderness! Great guides will get you the animal access, but you can maximize these moments by packing binoculars and a camera with a zoom lens. This gear lets you easily spot and capture images of your wild finds.

• Keep the binoculars and camera nearby when on deck or during shore excursions. You never know when you’ll spot a bald eagle soaring, a pod of whales breaching, a colorful puffin flapping above the water’s surface, or an otter curiously watching you while crunching on lunch. And then there are the landscapes: binoculars and cameras are indispensable for enjoying and documenting these only-in-Alaska vistas.
• Many operators offer gear rentals if concerns about luggage space and weight or costs arise. However, this means you won’t have these items at all times. Rental gear might be perfect for one-off excursions like kayaking, but avid hikers should bring their own boots. If you intend on renting, book in advance during the peak summer season.

Picture of a brown grizzly bear in Alaska by Janko Ferlic

Other Important Items to Pack for Your Alaska Cruise

There are also essential personal items that you simply can’t leave home without.

• Securely pack prescription medications in an accessible carry-on. Same with important travel documents like passports, travel insurance, and personal insurance cards.
• Small comforts can make cruise life more enjoyable. Miniature versions of favorite toiletries bring a sense of normalcy to busy days.
• Even while traveling through some of the world’s most breathtaking cruise routes, and participating in onboard offerings like birdwatching or stargazing, you’ll still have downtime. A new book or e-reader and portable gadgets will keep you entertained.

Top Tips When Packing for Your Alaska Cruise

Before you zip up your luggage after packing for your Alaska cruise, remember some essential packing tips:

• Pack light: Alaska’s unpredictable weather and extreme seasons demand smart packing, which includes getting as much gear in your luggage as possible. Try opting for lightweight versions of your layers, making room for more items like hiking boots and cabin comforts.
• Pack right: Layering is the key to comfort in changing conditions throughout each day, so make sure you’re covered twice or more from head to toe.
• Waterproof wearables: Include a waterproof jacket to keep yourself warm and dry. Waterproof hiking boots will keep your feet dry even on the wettest Southeast Alaska hike.
• Secure what’s special: Keep important items like passports, medications, and travel documents in a secure, easily accessible and waterproof bag.

Ready to Set Sail on Your Alaskan Adventure?

You’ve now made your ultimate packing list and know what to pack for your Alaska cruise. You’ve found the right luggage combos and packed all the essentials. Now it’s time to book that voyage of a lifetime. With extensive expertise in crafting unforgettable cruise experiences, Alaska Tours is committed to guiding travelers to the right trip. You can choose from a diverse range of cruise packages , such as luxury small ship cruises, the iconic Inside Passage cruises , exciting adventure cruises that pack in the excursions, grand trips like the Glacier Bay Cruise Adventure and much more. All offer the chance to explore this magnificent state in style and comfort, on and off the cruise ship.

Ready to start planning your Alaska cruise? Contact us to learn more about our cruise packages and book your trip today! We can’t wait to welcome you aboard a cruise of Alaska’s wonders.

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What to Pack for an Alaska Cruise

Must-Have Items for Your Alaska Cruise Packing List

While fantasizing about the taste of fresh-caught Alaska halibut or daydreaming about the glory of the great glaciers, many travelers wonder what to pack for an Alaska cruise . The items you choose to bring can make your dreams an even better reality. You should include everything from clothing and weather coverage — like a raincoat and sunscreen —­­ to accessories and equipment that will complement your every adventure. Here’s what to pack for a cruise to Alaska.

Whether you choose to zipline through forests or kayak through a crystalline fjord, the best attire for your daily affairs is casual, active sportswear. Princess travels to Alaska from late spring to early fall. Temperatures can range anywhere from 30-80 degrees Fahrenheit depending on the port of call and time of year. To make sure you’re prepared for the warmth of the afternoon sun and the gentle touch of the evening sea breeze, pack items that can be layered, including:

• Long-sleeve shirts
• A warm, water-repellent jacket
• A lightweight windbreaker
• Walking shoes or sneakers
• Touchscreen gloves

While your daytime attire may be more relaxed, there are several opportunities to dress up while on board. Formal dinner nights call for cocktail dresses or gowns for women and tuxedos or suits for men. The number of formal evenings will depend on the length of your cruise. To help determine what to pack for dinner wear, visit our FAQ packing page .

Medicine and More

All Princess cruises come equipped with 24-hour medical service. You may still want to include the following items on your Alaska cruise packing list to bring on shore excursions:

• Insect repellent
• Nausea-relief medicine
• Daily medication

Whether admiring monumental glaciers from your stateroom balcony or coming face-to-face with exquisite wildlife, an Alaska cruise offers endless picture-worthy moments. Consider packing the following devices so that you can capture each untouched landscape and every snow-capped summit:

• Waterproof camera
• USB converter
• Portable charger
• Protective phone case
• Memory cards
• Extra batteries

Princess has more balconies and suites than any other cruise line in Alaska, allowing you to maximize your glacier-viewing experience at every turn. You may also want to pack binoculars for an even closer look at all the splendor the Great Land has to offer.

Some of the most awe-inspiring Alaska shore excursions are the scenic hikes that lead you through lush rainforests to snow-capped peaks or scenic, sandy beaches. Since most of these expeditions can last several hours, make sure you have the right gear to keep you moving through Alaska’s unparalleled habitats. Popular items include:

• Packaged snacks from onboard cafes
• Collapsible hiking poles
• An umbrella and/or rain cover

Knowing what to pack for an Alaska cruise can make your journey to new lands even more seamless, allowing you to make the most of your vacation. As you begin crafting your Alaska cruise packing list, allow every item to stir your imagination and spark a sense of excitement for the extraordinary experiences that lie ahead.

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What to Pack for an Alaska Cruise (clothing, gear & essentials)

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Are you going on an Alaska cruise and wondering what to pack? This Alaska cruise packing list can help.

Packing for an Alaskan cruise is very different than packing for a Caribbean cruise . After all, the weather in Alaska can be cool and rainy or sunny and warm, all in one cruise!

This can make it a challenge, even for experienced cruisers. Whether you’re doing an Inside Passage, North or Southbound Alaska cruise, you’ll want to prepared for the weather with the right clothing and gear.

What to Pack for an Alaskan Cruise

Here’s a comprehensive Alaskan cruise packing list, including clothing, gear and cruise essentials to bring on your cruise.

I’ve also included some things you don’t want to forget to pack , as you may need them for shore excursions, days and evenings during your Alaskan cruise.

In this post we go over:

• Alaska weather by month (as a packing guide)
• What clothing to pack for an Alaska cruise (men & women)
• What items to pack for an Alaska cruise (gear & cruise essentials)

This post contains affiliate links which means if you click and buy that I may make a commission, at no cost to you. Please see my disclosure policy for details.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Packing for the Weather on an Alaska Cruise by Month

Depending on the month you sail to Alaska, the temperatures and rainfall can vary, which will affect what clothing you should bring. However, since Alaska weather is unpredictable, you should always pack rain gear and warm clothing to layer.

April & May

If you cruise to Alaska early in the season at the end of April or May, be prepared for the weather to be cooler than the summer months.

Alaska temperatures in May typically range from lows in the mid 30’s to highs in the mid 50’s F. You’ll get about 16-17 hours of daylight in Alaska during the month of May.

April and May are the driest months of the cruise season, with less chance of rain. However, you’ll want to be prepared with raingear and clothing for all weather conditions.

June & July

Typically, June and July are the warmest months of the Alaska cruise season, with lows in the 40’s to highs in mid 60’s F.

Many people find these months to be the best time of year to cruise to Alaska, in terms of weather and wildlife.

The weather is unpredictable, so it can be warm and sunny or you can have heavy rains, even in the same day! Be prepared for rain, with the proper outdoor clothing and gear. 

August & September

The chance of rain increases quite a lot by August and September. Temperatures range from the low 40’s to mid 50’s F.

Layers and raingear are essential.

October weather is usually more chilly and rainy than the other months of the Alaska cruise season. Temperatures typically range from lows in the 30’s to highs in the low 50’s F.

Daylight decreases to just 11 hours of daylight each day.

Alaska Cruise Packing List

When planning what to wear on an Alaska cruise , there are a few things to consider. For an Alaska cruise , you’ll need to pack clothes for your days and evenings on the cruise ship (including formal night ), as well as activities on land.

For excursions in Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan and other Alaska port days, it’s a good idea to plan on wearing layers of clothing, with a warm jacket and/or rain-gear as the top layer.

Something to note is that Alaska cruises tend be more casual than Caribbean and Mediterranean cruises . When making your own Alaska cruise packing list, you may want skip dressy evening wear and stick to casual and smart casual outfits .

Alaska Cruise Packing List for Women

Here’s a list of clothing to bring on a 7 day Alaska cruise. You may decide to bring more of some items and less of others depending on your preference and month of your cruise.

• short sleeve shirts
• long sleeve shirts
• sweatshirts or fleece sweaters
• comfortable pants
• fleece lined leggings
• undergarments
• thermal undergarments
• lightweight lined jacket or puffer coat
• hooded waterproof rain jacket or windbreaker
• thin gloves
• active wear (gym)
• casual or smart casual dresses
• pants or nice jeans
• blouse or sweaters
• cocktail or formal dresses
• bathing suits
• swimsuit cover ups
• shawl or pashmina
• evening bag
• jewelry (optional)
• dress shoes
• flip flops (for indoor pool or hot tub)
• Hiking boots or waterproof shoes
• comfortable shoes
• polarized sunglasses

Related:   25 Gorgeous Swimsuit Cover Ups for a Cruise

Alaska Cruise Packing List for Men

• long sleeve or flannel shirts
• shorts or cargo pants/convertible pants
• gym clothes
• bathing suit (for indoor pool or hot tub)
• smart casual wear (evening)
• khakis or nice jeans
• Nice shirts or sweaters
• Suit or tuxedo
• dress shirts
• hiking boots or waterproof shoes
• baseball cap

Related:   Cruise Wear for Men: Men’s Packing List for a Cruise

Things to Bring on an Alaska Cruise (essentials & gear)

Beyond clothing, there are many things you’ll want to pack for your Alaskan cruise vacation.

Consider the activities you’ll be doing in the ports of call in Alaska. Perhaps you’re going whale watching in Juneau , dog-sledding on Mendenhall Glacier or walking around the town in Skagway.

These are the must-haves to pack for shore excursions and day trips in Alaska.

Bringing your own pair of compact travel binoculars is an Alaska cruise must-have! Whether you’re on an excursion or looking out at the incredible scenery and wildlife from your balcony on the cruise ship, make sure to have one per person.

Recommended: Folding travel binoculars (check price & see over 8000 Amazon reviews here)

Thermal Undergarments

When people say to dress in layers for Alaska, it starts with thermal undergarments . If you plan on visiting the glaciers, you can expect if to be cold and chilly. If you wear a base layer, you’ll keep warm and comfortable.

Base layer for women

Recommended: Base layer thermal wear (receives excellent reviews)

Base layer for men

This base layer for men is a best-seller that really should be on your Alaska cruise packing list.

Recommended: Thermal base layer for men

Puffer Coat

While you won’t need a jacket every day in Alaska, if you are cruising during the colder months, there will be times you’ll be happy to have a thin warm puffer coat. 

Puffer jacket for women

This puffer jacket is lightweight, but is made with thin insulation and heat reflective lining. 

Recommended: Puffer jacket for women (check price & Amazon reviews here)

Men’s puffer jacket

This men’s puffer jacket is very lightweight and packs up small and tight, while still being insulated and warm.

Recommended: Lightweight men’s puffer jacket (see details & price on Amazon here)

Waterproof Jacket

Wear a waterproof jacket (not water resistant) with a fleece or warm sweater underneath on rainy days!

Recommended: Men’s Columbia waterproof jacket (well made – excellent reviews)

Thin Gloves

The best gloves you can bring on your Alaska cruise are one touch gloves . These thin gloves will keep your hands warm, but also allow you to use your smart phone and take photos and videos.

Recommended: One touch gloves (for men & women)

A warm hat is an Alaska must-have! Consider a Carhartt knit hat , literally everyone’s favorite hat! It’s warm, comfortable and actually looks good on both men and women!

Recommended: Carhartt Warm hat (see colors & over 100,000 5* Amazon reviews)

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Convertible Pants

Consider packing a pair of convertible pants (cargo style pants) . These versatile pants are great for the outdoors, especially if you’re cruising to Alaska in June or July when you just may want a pair of shorts.

Recommended: Convertible pants (see colors & reviews on Amazon)

Rain Poncho

Some rain is common in Alaska. Even on milder days, packing a light rain poncho in your backpack just in case, is a smart idea.

Recommended: Unisex rain poncho (check price & Amazon reviews here)

Insect Repellant

Bring insect repellant on your Alaska cruise. You’ll definitely need it for any hiking tours and excursions, as well as other times.

Recommended: Insect repellant (protects for 10 hours)

Polarized Sunglasses

Sunglasses aren’t only for Caribbean cruises. When the sun reflects off the glaciers, polarized sunglasses will be essential. Even on sunny sea days on a cruise, these will come in handy.

Recommended: Polarized sunglasses (durable with protection rope)

Waterproof Dry Bag

A waterproof dry bag is great for all cruises where you may have water based or active excursions. If you get one for your Alaska cruise, you can keep it on your Caribbean, Bahamas or Bermuda cruise packing list as well!

Recommended: Waterproof dry bag (check price and 5* Amazon reviews)

Waterproof Backpack

A lightweight waterproof backpack is a must for excursions and day trips in Alaska, but also makes a handy embarkation day carry on bag for your first cruise day. Due to the potential for heavy rain in any of the Alaska cruise ports, make sure your backpack is waterproof and not water-resistant.

Recommended: Waterproof backpack (see price details & color options here)

Waterproof Shoes

An Alaska cruise packing list wouldn’t be complete without waterproof shoes. Make sure your waterproof hiking shoes are comfortable, breathable and have support for your feet.

Ladies waterproof shoes

Recommended: Columbia waterproof hiking shoes (womens)

Men’s waterproof shoes

Recommended: Columbia waterproof hiking shoes (men)

Hiking Socks

During any month, it can rain in Alaska, which means the potential for wet feet. Make sure to pack some moisture control socks (hiking or wicking socks). These are perfect for keeping your feet drier and supported.

Recommended: Moisture control socks (highly rated 150,000+ reviews)

Don’t forget to bring sunscreen. These travel size sunscreens are easy to pack for your Alaska cruise, and can be used on future cruises as well.

Recommended: Sunscreen

Make sure to bring along some chap stick or lip balm for warm sunny days in Alaska, as well as the windy ones.

Recommended: Lip balm

Waterproof Phone Case

A waterproof phone case dry bag is an Alaska cruise essential. You’ll be able to take photos and use your touch screen, while your phone stays clean and dry.

Recommended: Waterproof phone case dry bag (compatible with most cell phones)

Portable Charger

Make sure to bring a fast charging portable phone charger on your Alaskan cruise. This will come in handy before, during and after your cruise as well.

Recommended: Portable phone charger (for newest phones)

Reusable Water Bottle

Consider bringing collapsible refillable water bottles , to save space in your backpack.

Recommended: Collapsible water bottles (leakproof)

Collapsible Hiking Polls

If you’re planning on hiking in Alaska, packing a lightweight walking stick or collapsible hiking polls will be very useful.

Recommended: Ultralight collapsible hiking poll (check price & 1500+ Amazon reviews)

Camera Equipment

There’s no question, you’ll be able to take some amazing photos in Alaska. Nature and wildlife is at it’s best!

Consider bringing along a good camera and lense to capture whales, bald eagles and bears.

Recommended: Lumix long zoom camera (great value for price – see reviews)

Compact Travel Umbrella

A small foldable umbrella is a useful accessory to have for your Alaska cruise. This compact umbrella is durable and windproof, which is what you need.

Recommended: Compact umbrella (windproof – see details)

Seasickness Medication & Prevention

Motion sickness is a possibility on all cruises, including cruises in Alaska. However, there are effective ways to prevent seasickness, hopefully before it starts.

These items are recommended:

Motion sickness patches

Tummydrops (ginger candies)

First Aid Kit

A cruise first aid kit with over the counter medications, bandages and other important items should be brought on every cruise. You can make your own, or purchase a first aid kit sold on Amazon.

Recommended: First aid kit

Video: 10 Things Cruisers Forget to Pack for an Alaska Cruise (& regret)

A insulated coffee mug is a great item to bring on your Alaska cruise. Just imagine enjoying a cup of coffee or hot chocolate as you sail through Glacier Bay.

Recommended: Insulated coffee mug (check price & reviews)

Cruise Essentials to Bring on an Alaska Cruise

These cruise items and travel gadgets will help to make your cabin more organized and comfortable during your Alaska cruise.

Over the door organizer

Hanging toiletry bag.

Save space in your cruise cabin bathroom by bringing a hanging toiletry bag .

Recommended: Hanging toiletry bag (over 25,000 5* reviews)

Magnet Hooks

Magnet hooks are a favorite cruise hack ! Add extra storage space to your cabin by using super strong magnet hooks on your cabin walls (they’re usually metal).

Recommended: Strong magnet hooks

Packing Cubes

Packing cubes are a great way to stay organized, for before and during your cruise.

Recommended: Packing cubes (check price, colors & Amazon reviews here)

Luggage Tag Holders

Reusable luggage tag holders will save your time and aggravation.

Take a look for your specific cruise line here:

Princess 

Royal Caribbean

Celebrity 

Norwegian 

Carnival 

Holland America

Non-Surge Protected Power Strip

Cruise cabins are small, and often have only one or two electric outlets. It’s a good idea to bring along a non-surge protected power strip with USB outlets to charge all your devices. Note – you cannot bring a regular power strip from home as these are prohibited and will be confiscated.

Recommended: Non-surge protected power bar (cruise compliant)

Related:   Why Can’t You Bring a Surge Protected Power Strip on a Cruise?

Pou-Pourri is a unique product that cruisers swear by! Cruise ship cabins are small, and so are the bathrooms. Pou-Pourri is a “before you go spray” that works better than regular air freshener.

Recommended: Pou-Pourri

Travel Alarm Clock

Many cruisers like having a simple and reliable travel alarm clock that can sit on the bedside table. There’s nothing worse than being late for an excursion!

Recommended: Travel alarm clock (cruiser favorite 10,000+ reviews)

Electronic Organizer Case

These days, everyone needs a bag to organize cables, chargers, SD cards and more. This electronics organizer bag is a popular cruise item that’s very useful!

Recommended: Electronics organizer case (check price & over 5000 Amazon reviews here)

Alaska Cruise Packing FAQ’s

How to layer clothing for an alaska cruise.

Since the weather in Alaska is unpredictable and can vary, the best way to dress for days on land is by layering your clothing. In this way, as the day warms up and you become more active, you can remove layers and be comfortable. 

Wear a base layer of thermal undergarments for colder days. On top of this, add a thick long sleeve shirt, fleece or sweater. A waterproof lined jacket or puffer coat can be worn on top as well.

On milder days in Alaska, you may be able to wear and t-shirt or long sleeve shirt. However, you’ll still want to dress in layers so you can put on a fleece sweatshirt or warm sweater as needed. A rain poncho should always be in your backpack for Alaska excursions and day trips.

What to Wear on an Alaska Cruise Formal Night

Although Alaska cruises tend to be less dressy than Caribbean cruises, most Alaska cruises have formal nights , elegant or chic nights. For ladies, a longer sleeve cocktail dress, gown or pantsuit is perfect. You can also wear a pashmina or shawl on your shoulders.

Men can wear suits, dress pants and a dress shirt or a tuxedo. Don’t forget to pack your dress shoes, socks, belt and tie.

Do You Need a Bathing Suit for an Alaskan Cruise?

Even though it’s fairly cold in Alaska, you should definitely pack a bathing suit. You’ll likely want to use the hot tub or perhaps even an indoor pool during your Alaskan cruise.

Video: Alaska Cruise Essentials

Related & Popular Posts

• What to Wear for an Alaska Cruise (day, evening, formal night)
• 5 Practical Alaska Whale Watching Tips You Need to Know
• 17 Cruise Cabin Essentials Every Cruiser Needs
• The Ultimate Guide to Cruise Gratuities
• 17 Rookie Mistakes First Time Cruisers Should Avoid
• 50 Must-have Cruise Essentials – Amazon List
• Best Travel Gadgets to Bring on a Cruise (tech items & electronics)

Final Thoughts on What to Pack for an Alaska Cruise

Getting ready and packing for an Alaskan cruise can be challenging, but well worth it!.

In this post we went over what to pack for an Alaska cruise, which includes an Alaska cruise packing list for men and women and useful cruise accessories.

Have you been or are you planning to go on a cruise to Alaska? What are some items that you’ll be packing?

Happy cruising!

P.S. If you found this helpful, please don’t keep it to yourself ;-). Please share on Facebook or PIN to your favorite Pinterest board (share buttons at the top). Thanks so much!

15 Comments

My husband and I enjoy your YouTube videos so much. We have learned so much about cruising from you. Keep up the good work.

Thanks Ann! I really appreciate that and I’m so glad they’ve been helpful!

Thanks, I find your information VERY helpful.

Thanks Dave, I’m so glad the info is useful.

Have a wonderful cruise!

Hi Llana – I really enjoy your videos. Very informative. I just completed a one week cruise to Alaska on NCL Bliss (April 15-22, 2023). I went solo in a balcony cabin. I was pleasantly surprised at the storage in the cabin. The bed was also super comfy. I had great weather. Brought a puffy coat, a puffy vest, fleece pullover and tee shirts. Instead of packing thermal layers I packed lightweight merino sweaters that could be worn during the day with jeans but nice enough to wear for dinner as well that eliminated the need for a thermal layer. I was plenty warm with my merino sweater and puffy jacket. Merino socks were also the way to go. I didn’t need a separate pair for every day because merino doesn’t absorb odors and dries out very quickly. I wore my merino socks 3 times and could have left the rest of the socks at home. Loved the Columbia waterproof shoes you recommended. They were my go to and were so comfortable to wear on my excursions. I could have left my hair tools at home. I went to the salon and had my hair done every 2-3 days. It was an expense (about $60 each time) but the style lasted really well and was such a time saver. I could never style my hair the way a stylist can. It was a special treat. I have more insights specifically on NCL Bliss and what was worth spending money on and what I wouldn’t do again. Happy to share if anyone is interested.

Thanks so much for sharing!

$60 for getting your hair done doesn’t sound so bad at all! I think I’ll get that done after my snorkeling excursion!

FUTURE CRUISE: Navigator of the Seas October 2023 PRIOR CRUISES: Cruise 1 Monarch of the Seas 01/30/06 Cruise 2 Monarch of the Seas 01/22/07 Cruise 3 Monarch of the Seas 01/28/08 Cruise 4 Carnival Paradise 02-08-10

Sounds great!

I will be cruising to Alaska on NCL Biss in September. I would appreciate any other insights tailored to NCL Bliss.

Hi Ilana My compliments on a useful, well written packing guide for my Alaska Cruise. My question is: How do I determine the size of dry bag I need? (I find it difficult to relate the size in “liters” posted on Amazon with what the bag will hold). Thank you for your help.

I’m glad this was helpful. If you don’t have a water excursion planned, a waterproof backpack should be fine. 30 L is usually a small-medium bag, 40 L is a larger bag (based on my experience). Enjoy your cruise!

A lot of the clothing items are great for my October-November 2023 cruise in case the weather changes. I’m going to pull things from your list because we have a forward-facing balcony cabin. It does have a plexiglass-type windbreak attached to the rail, but still want to be prepared for early-early mornings!

You are a role model for an Alaska cruise, living in Canada!

Thanks for sharing! Have an amazing cruise 🙂

Love your videos. They’re given me a lot of insite on how to pack for Alaska. Going in September on Celebrity Eclipse. Can’t wait. Feel more prepared now due to your videos. Thanks.

I’m so glad they’ve been helpful! Enjoy your Alaska cruise!

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• Cruise Deals
• Packing Tips

10 Alaska Cruise Packing Do’s and Don’ts

Wondering just how to pack for an Alaska cruise?

If you’re like me, you think of Alaska and instantly envision snow-capped mountain peaks, raincoats, and cozy boots. But packing for a cruise to Alaska is nuanced, and somewhat difficult to plan for. Why? Because the weather varies GREATLY from month to month, even hour to hour. So, it’s best to be prepared for the changing weather by packing a wide range of clothing and gear. But, don’t worry! This doesn’t have to mean packing HUGE suitcases full of boots, jackets & bulk! In fact, you CAN pack light to Alaska if you’d like. 

Check out our Ultimate Quick Guide to Alaska Ports HERE

DISCLOSURE: this article contains affiliate links & we may earn when you make a purchase. 

Let’s back up a bit…

DO check out our other Alaska resources.

We have a few other Alaska resources we suggest you check out to fully prepare you for your cruise to the Last Frontier!

This outfit of the day (OOTD) video shows my outfits (day & night) on a 10 night Alaska cruise that took place late August, early September.

This article explores the best time to cruise to Alaska based on 4 factors.

And this overview gives more depth on what to pack for your cruise to Alaska.

Our Alaska Cruise Packing List gives you a detailed overview of what to pack!

Check out our Ultimate Quick Guide to Alaska Ports HERE !

Brand new to cruising? Read our Essential Guide for First-Time Cruisers !

DO pack layers!

You’ve heard it before, layers are KING in Alaska. But, what the heck does that mean? Typically, a day in Alaska can go from drizzly and cool, to sunny for a few hours, then perhaps brisk & breezy. 

So, it’s best to arm yourself with the following types of clothing layers for port days and days on the ship:

• Jeans or lightweight pants
• T-shirts or lightweight shirts (cotton is nice and breathable)
• Sweatshirts or sweaters to be worn over a T-shirt
• Warm socks (wool is nice)
• Sneakers (water resistant with a little traction) or broken in hiking boots. 
• Baseball cap (for rainy days, sometimes a cap is all that’s needed). Don’t worry, you can buy a cool Alaska hat in port or on the ship!
• Light winter cap & gloves
• Light winter scarf
• A light rain layer with a hood 
• A light but warm jacket (down or “puffer” jackets are great!)
• If you can find a water-resistant, WARM and cozy jacket , that’s great too, but the LIGHTER jackets are so much easier to layer, and remove when you get warm.
• A lightweight backpack for shore days

DO pack a swimsuit and flip-flops or sandals

Hot tubs are one of the best-kept secrets in Alaska, and an incredible way to experience the fresh, unspoiled outdoors while staying warm. All too often, we hear cruisers say “I thought it would be too cold for my swimsuit!”, or “I left my sandals at home and had to wear my sneakers on the pool deck!”. 

DO make room in your suitcase for these…

There are two “accessories” you won’t want to forget at home. We strongly suggest a travel size set of binoculars & a great camera for your cruise to Alaska. For us, a great camera can mean the latest version of our phone (truly- the cameras are amazing these days). But, if there were ever a time to bust out that fancy lens or DSLR camera, Alaska is that time. GoPro’ s can be great too if you’re willing to keep up with the firmware updates and learn how to use them.

Wildlife spotting, distant waterfalls, and glaciers also call for a nice, high-quality set of binoculars. Travel size will do the trick, but if you’re not worried about weight or bulk in your luggage, pack whatever you have on hand. 

DO pack sunscreen

The summer days in Alaska are LONG and the rays are no joke. A small bottle of sunscreen for face, neck & arms can be a skin-saver in Alaska, especially if you’re on the water, or on a glacier where the sun’s reflection seems more powerful. We typically approach sunscreen packing for Alaska differently than we would for warm weather destinations like the Caribbean. Rather than waterproof, sand proof formula, we focus on a high quality, easy to apply formula to cover those exposed areas of skin. 

• Are you new to cruising? Read our Essential Guide for First-Time Cruisers !

DON’T overpack dressy clothes for dinner

Alaska is typically more casual, even at dinner. Formal nights ARE still a thing, so gown-up (or tux up!) if you’d like, but remember, on the mass market cruise lines in Alaska, jeans, nicer t-shirts, collared shirts, pants & sweaters are perfectly fine for dinner. In fact, on our last two cruises, I’d say MOST women didn’t wear dresses to dinner unless it was formal night. It was much more commonplace to see nice pans & jeans and sweaters. In fact, some folks came to dinner in their port-day clothes. It’s really okay!

DON’T overlook bug repellent

Mosquito repellant isn’t likely something you’ll need on the cruise ship, but if you’re planning on venturing out on a hike, bear walk, or any other nature-focused activity on our Alaska cruise, a small amount of bug repellant is highly recommended!

DON’T leave your shorts at home

On our first cruise to Alaska back in 2005, we arrived to a major heat wave in our embarkation port of Seattle. We’re talking 90+ degrees Fahrenheit, and NONE of us had packed the proper clothing for summer weather that you’d more typically find in Southern California. What did we do? Mom, myself, and my husband (this was pre-Junior) headed to the mall and we ALL bought a pair of shorts! 

It was pretty hilarious, but since that little incident, we’ve NEVER left for an Alaska cruise without a single pair of shorts in our suitcase (just one). You never know when you’ll have an 80+ degree day, even in the Last Frontier!

DON’T pack poor quality sunglasses

The sun in Alaska can be bright & fierce, but that doesn’t mean you have to spend a lot of money on sunglasses. Costco sells wonderful, high quality brands like Maui Jim (our fave and often polarized) and Amazon has a great selection too. 

DON’T pack non water-resistant shoes

Rain, or well….”drizzle” is pretty common in Alaska, and that leads to mud, puddles & dirty, soggy shoes. Particularly if you’re planning an active day- like exploring the trails at Mendenhall Glacier, or taking the tram up to Mt. Roberts. It’s best to pack a comfortable outdoor shoe/sneaker that’s somewhat water resistant. We learned this the hard way when we all packed our favorite running shoes for our Alaska cruise, only to find out that those stylish air vents that make the shoes breathable on a run, also allow water in! Soggy socks are no fun. 

Now, we’re NOT recommending you packing stiff, brand new hiking boots here. That can be an uncomfortable mistake, but consider the material your shoes are made from, and keep water resistance in mind. We like “duck boots” like those shown in the photo above.

NEED HELP PACKING FOR ALASKA? Visit our Amazon Alaska store for all the essentials!

What’s Alaska Like?

Follow along on our Alaska Cruise Journey , and see for yourself why we love these cruises so much! See bears in Ketchikan, visit a glacier in Juneau, and ride the rails with us in Skagway!

Pack with us for Alaska!

Our Alaska Packing Playlist features packing and planning videos for your cruise to Alaska. From clothing, outerwear, and gear, to packing carry-on only (GASP!), we’ve gotcha covered.

You can also shop our Amazon store , specifically curated for Alaska, OR shop our latest packing video to have you safe and comfortable on your cruise and flight!

See more packing tips here .

Be sure to shop our Amazon Store for:

• Toiletries and Beauty , Shore Day Bags
• Clothing for men and women
• Plus-Size Clothing
• Motion Sickness Remedies
• Stateroom Essentials
• Deck Party and Theme Night Ideas
• Not sure where to start with packing toiletries for a cruise? Here’s a cruise toiletry guide to get you on the right track!

Where to find us for more cruise tips!

Thanks so much for reading along! We hope you’ve enjoyed this article on Alaska cruise packing & prep and we’d love to hear from you! Please feel free to direct message us on Instagram or Facebook with your thoughts, and until next time, we’ll see you on the high seas!

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To redeem the $5.00 discount on our master class, enter code ALLABOARD here , and welcome to the Academy!

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How to cruise with just a carry-on

One of my favorite aspects of cruising is the idea that you only have to unpack once. However, I don't let that lure me away from my minimalist packing tendencies. Whether it's a sunny sailing in the Caribbean or an Alaska cruise in the spring, I always stick to a one carry-on-only rule.

Why just one carry-on ? There are a few reasons lightening your load is a great way to go. If you're flying to the cruise port, you don't have to worry about your luggage getting lost on the way or waste time at baggage claim waiting for it. It's also super convenient to have instant access to all your belongings should something unforeseen interrupt your travel plans.

For more cruise guides, news and tips, sign up for TPG's new cruise newsletter .

From planning and organizing to packing and accessorizing, this guide will help you achieve carry-on freedom for your next cruise vacation.

Planning and preparation

The key to avoiding overpacking is in the planning stages. Whether you're prepping for your first cruise or 20th one, you can always streamline your items and pack less. Here are a few tips to help you achieve your carry-on-only dream on your next cruise.

Organize your clothing

Depending on the line, suggested attire runs the gamut from super casual to elegant. Formal nights have largely been tossed out the porthole, but some luxury lines still offer them — and often host more than one during longer sailings.

Cruise lines like Carnival Cruise Line , Norwegian Cruise Line and Disney Cruise Line don't have a designated formal evening dress code. However, dressier attire is generally encouraged (collared shirts, jackets and nice slacks for men; dresses, skirts and pantsuits for the ladies).

Don't let dress codes derail your commitment to carry-on-only travel. Instead of packing individual pieces, organize your clothes by outfits. Aim to include a few basic pieces you can stretch into two or more different outfits.

My travel packing mantra is: These people will probably never see me again, so do I really care if they see me wearing the same outfit twice? Honestly, I don't remember what I had for breakfast last week, much less what my fellow cruisers wear from day to day.

That little black dress can go a long way. Add a jacket, cardigan or scarf and change up your jewelry for a completely different look. For men , a basic collared or button-up shirt could work with a nice suit or paired with khaki pants or shorts.

Don't forget to plan and organize accessories, too. A large scarf can serve many purposes. It can keep you warm on the plane or in the dining room, serve as a casual bathing suit cover-up or add a touch of flair to your LBD.

Related: Cruise packing list: The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise

Plan your excursions and activities and pack accordingly

What part of the world you'll sail and the tours you take will largely dictate your wardrobe. The more you pack for your actual cruise activities, the less extra clothing you'll be tempted to pack "just in case."

Planning to do mostly water-based excursions in a warm climate? You can likely get by with T-shirts and shorts. Resist the urge to pack more than one cover-up for beach days.

In Europe, many sacred sites like mosques, temples or cathedrals won't let you enter with bare shoulders and legs. You'll want to pack something modest to accommodate those types of excursions. Handle this situation with a scarf or long-sleeved layer that you can re-wear on board rather than an entirely separate outfit.

When it comes time to pack, group outfits according to day and activity. You want to get granular here and include socks and undergarments with each outfit. Anything that doesn't go with a specific wardrobe need can be left at home.

Related: Shore excursions: What new cruisers need to know

Let's talk about shoes

Maybe it's just me, but shoes are my biggest nemesis when I aim to be a minimalist packer. They're a bulky necessity. Case in point: I own these glorious red chunky platform sandals I like to wear on warm destination cruises, but they take up precious real estate in my bag. If it's a short or direct flight and I don't have to sprint to another gate, I will wear them on the plane to avoid packing them.

My Chacos sandals serve me well in my minimalist vacation wardrobe. They're my hiking, kayaking, beach day, walking tour, multipurpose shoes. Any high-quality waterproof sports shoes are a good investment if you want to pare down the number of shoes you require. I usually pack my tennis shoes for workouts or morning ship walks, too. A pair of flat, strappy sandals doesn't take up much space and works well with skirts or can level up a pair of shorts for a dressier look.

For cooler or colder climates, I replace my Chacos with sturdy tennis shoes and swap my platform sandals for ballet flats. If you need to pack bulky hiking boots for your Alaska sailing, fill them with smaller items like belts and socks, among other things, to maximize the space in your carry-on. Hygiene tip: Place your shoes in a plastic bag to keep the rest of the contents in your luggage dirt- and germ-free.

Wear it, don't pack it

The more you wear, the less you have to pack. If you're flying to the cruise port, strategize your on-the-plane outfit. Wear some of your bulkier items on the plane or dress in layers, like a pair of jeans worn with a versatile cardigan or comfortable blazer.

Flying to a cold climate cruise? Wear or carry your coat onto the plane. Brands like Patagonia and Arc'teryx offer a good selection of lightweight but well-insulated jackets perfect for cold-weather excursions. Wear your hiking boots or heavier shoes on the plane, too.

Related: 7 cruise ship packing mistakes you want to avoid at all costs

Wash it and wear it again

Throw in some travel-sized laundry detergent for hand-washing items you can re-wear. SinkSuds Travel Laundry Detergent Liquid Soap (available on Amazon ) or Sea to Summit Trek & Travel Pocket Laundry Wash (available at REI ) are two worth considering. Also, many cruise lines offer some type of laundry service — self-serve or paid laundry, pressing and dry cleaning.

Time to pack

When it comes to saving space and traveling light, how you pack is just as important as what you pack.

Gather the outfits you've organized. Lay down the largest piece of clothing first, then stack the rest so the smallest item is on the top. You'll fold those pieces inward to create a fold and then roll up the outfit. All your rolled outfits should fit nicely and snugly in your suitcase.

You can also place each outfit into a packing cube . No cubes? Gallon-sized Ziploc bags work well, too.

Accessories

Smaller items like toiletries, make-up, brushes and medicine can also be corralled in a packing cube or Ziploc bag. To save even more room, I use small, stackable containers and fill them with my liquid foundation, moisturizer and other items that come in larger bottles.

Compile your own first aid kit in a packing cube or zip bag. Items to include: activated charcoal (great for stomach bugs), pain reliever, Band-Aids and itch relief cream.

Pack an empty water bottle, too, so you can stay hydrated during your cruise without burning through all those single-use plastic bottles. Many cruise lines have completely eliminated plastic water bottles, so you should be able to find water stations throughout the ship or use the "water" option at the juice machine. Make the most of your space with a collapsible water bottle. It stores flat in your bag or can easily fit in the outer pocket of your backpack or personal item.

Related: 20 must-have cruise items — including a roll of duct tape

When I cruise, I typically replace the purse I usually carry with my backpack. It's easier to manage than a traditional purse. The weight is evenly distributed on your back and stays in place, unlike that one purse strap that tends to slide off your shoulder.

If I'm flying, I make sure to pack my backpack light enough to still fit under the seat in front of me. It holds all my electronic devices and accessories, travel essentials like my passport, ID, credit cards, insurance card, face mask and hand sanitizer. I also include my sleeping mask, earphones and a book (or my Kindle). If I'm traveling with my laptop, it goes in there, too.

My backpack accompanies me on hiking, snorkeling and beach day excursions, so I don't need to bring separate bags for those activities. I do pack a smaller, empty travel purse or wrist wallet for walking tours or other activities that don't require a backpack.

Related: TPG readers recommended their favorite travel backpacks — here's what I chose

Bottom line

There is such freedom in having everything with you when you travel. It's nice to only have to unpack once. It's even nicer to unpack in under five minutes, so you can jump right into cruise mode and enjoy your favorite onboard activities.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

• Destinations
• Planning Tips
• Top Cruise Deals

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