Unsure of what to pack for your Cruise to Alaska?
Here are a few helpful tips.
1. Pack Lots of Thin Layers
A trick to packing for Alaska is bringing items that serve more than one purpose. Start with a comfortable layer, like a lightweight, shore-sleeved shirt. Add a cardigan, fleece or hoodie for warmth, and top it off with a jacket or coat. If you get warm, shed whatever you need to make yourself more comfortable.
2. Bring an All-Weather Jacket
A waterproof, breathable jacket trumps a simple windbreaker. Your jacket doesn’t need to be heavy. You will want to bring a jacket that keeps out the damp. Since your wet clothes will take time to dry, this will help you stay more comfortable.
3. Skip the Umbrella
While it does rain, it’s best to leave the umbrella at home. A waterproof hat or your all-weather jacket will help to protect you from the rain and sun. A Rain Cover can come in handy.
4. Convertible Pants
Pants that unzip around the knee and convert to shorts will have you ready for both a dry, sunny hike and a cold, misty dog sledding adventure. A breathable pair is ideal. Jeans, Khakis or leggings.
5. Pack Two Pairs of Closed-Toed , Comfortable Shoes
Walking shoes with good traction are ideal. You will also want to bring a pair of sturdy, lightweight hiking shoes that are waterproof.
6. Accessories
A lightweight hat, gloves and scarf for the cooler days, high quality wool or fleece socks to keep your feet warm and dry. Lightweight vest.
7. Swimsuits
For the pool or hot tub
8. Shorts
If you tend to get warm, pack some shorts for the warmer days.
9. Long and Short-Sleeve Shirts
Versatile for layering or wearing on their own, warmer days or a base layer.
10. Sunscreen and Polarized Sunglasses
Protect you skin and eyes from the suns glare, especially when near glaciers or water.
11. Camera and Binoculars
12. Backpack
13. Medications
When you pack medications in your carry-on, make sure they are in their original prescription bottle with the label. Nausea medication.
14. Passport and other IDs
Required for boarding the ship and other excursions
15. Cash
For souvenirs, tips and excursions
16. Portable Chargers
17. Universal Adaptor
18. Reusable Water Bottle
19. Slippers and Sandals
20. Formal Evening Wear
Most Alaskan cruises have at least one formal night.
21. Digital Camera and Memory Cards
22. Dry bag for electronics
23. Collapsible Hiking Poles
24. Sunscreen and Aloe Vera Gel
25. Essentials:
Undergarments, travel-size toiletries, lip balm, travel documents, wallet and keys (clean wallet out before traveling), earplugs, entertainment (books, games, kindle, puzzle games, tablet), gum, sleep mask.