What to Pack for Your Alaska Cruise

When packing for an Alaska cruise, bring layered clothing including waterproof jackets, fleece, and long pants. Pack both casual and formal attire for onboard dining. Essential items include binoculars, camera equipment, sunscreen, sunglasses, comfortable walking shoes, and motion sickness medication. Don’t forget power adapters and a small daypack for shore excursions in varying weather conditions.

Quick Facts: Alaska Cruise Packing Essentials

Category	Essential Items	Why You Need It
Clothing Layers	Waterproof jacket, fleece, long-sleeve shirts, long pants	Temperatures can swing 25+ degrees in a single day
Footwear	Waterproof hiking boots, comfortable sneakers, dress shoes	Varied terrain from wet docks to formal dining
Accessories	Binoculars, camera with zoom lens, polarized sunglasses	Wildlife viewing opportunities happen unexpectedly
Sun Protection	High SPF sunscreen, lip balm with SPF, hat	UV rays reflect off water and snow, even on cloudy days
Onboard Attire	2-3 formal outfits, casual evening wear	Most cruises have at least one formal night
Day Excursion Gear	Small backpack, reusable water bottle, hand warmers	Shore excursions can last 6-8 hours

Want to know more about planning the perfect Alaska cruise itinerary and timeline?

The Layering System That Actually Works

Alaska’s weather doesn’t just change from day to day—it changes from hour to hour and sometimes from bow to stern on the same ship. You might start your morning whale watching in Glacier Bay bundled up against 40-degree winds, then find yourself peeling off layers by lunchtime when the sun breaks through. Here’s the layering system that works for real Alaska conditions:

Base Layer (The Foundation)

• Moisture-wicking long underwear tops and bottoms: Skip cotton entirely. Merino wool or synthetic fabrics pull sweat away from your skin and dry quickly if you get caught in rain.
• Long-sleeve t-shirts: Pack at least 4-5 lightweight options that you can wear alone or under other layers.
• Sports bras or undershirts: Again, synthetic or wool materials beat cotton every time in damp conditions.

Mid Layer (The Insulator)

• Fleece pullover or jacket: This is your workhorse piece. A medium-weight fleece works for most situations and compresses well in luggage.
• Lightweight down or synthetic puffy jacket: For early morning excursions or glacier viewing, you’ll want something with actual insulation.
• Cardigan or zip-up hoodie: Perfect for evenings on the ship when it’s cool but not freezing.

Outer Layer (The Shield)

• Waterproof rain jacket with hood: Not water-resistant—waterproof. There’s a difference. Look for sealed seams and pit zips for ventilation.
• Rain pants: Most people forget these and regret it on the first shore excursion when they’re standing in a downpour watching bears.
• Windbreaker: Sometimes you just need wind protection without full rain gear bulk.

For specific outfit combinations and styling ideas, check out these 20 practical Alaska cruise outfit ideas that actually work in real conditions.

What to Wear When: Monthly Breakdown

Alaska’s cruise season runs roughly from late April through September, and what you pack should shift depending on when you’re sailing. Here’s what you actually need to know:

Early Season (May)

May brings unpredictable weather with temperatures ranging from 35-60°F. You’ll need heavier layers and more waterproof gear. Snow is still common at higher elevations, and rain happens frequently. Browse these outfit ideas specifically for May Alaska cruises to see what works best.

• Heavier fleece or insulated jacket
• Waterproof gloves and warm hat
• Multiple pairs of wool socks
• Hand warmers for excursions

Peak Season (June-July)

These months offer the most pleasant weather with temperatures from 50-70°F, but don’t let that fool you into packing light. Mornings and evenings stay cool, and rain remains a constant possibility. For summer packing guidance, look at these July outfit recommendations for Alaska cruises.

• Lighter layers that you can easily add or remove
• A lighter waterproof jacket is sufficient
• Convertible pants (zip-off legs) work great
• Still bring at least one warm layer for glacier viewing

Late Season (August-September)

Temperatures start dropping again, ranging from 45-65°F. September particularly can feel more like May with increased rainfall and cooler temperatures.

• Return to heavier mid-layers
• Pack for conditions similar to May
• Extra waterproof gear becomes essential again

The Footwear Dilemma Solved

Your feet will make or break your Alaska cruise experience—literally. Here’s what you need and why three pairs of shoes isn’t excessive:

Waterproof Hiking Boots or Shoes

These are non-negotiable for shore excursions. You’ll walk on wet docks, muddy trails, and potentially snow. Break them in before your trip unless you enjoy blisters with your bear viewing.

Comfortable Walking Sneakers

For around the ship and easier port days. These should be fully broken in and supportive since you’ll walk several miles daily just getting around the ship and exploring towns.

Dress Shoes

Yes, even on an Alaska cruise. Most ships have at least one formal night, and nicer restaurants may have dress codes. Men need closed-toe dress shoes; women can opt for flats or low heels (save the stilettos for Caribbean cruises).

Bonus: Rubber Boots

Some excursions, particularly salmon viewing or tidepool exploration, require serious waterproof footwear. Check if your ship or excursion provider offers loaner boots before packing your own.

The Gear Most First-Timers Forget

These items separate the prepared cruisers from those scrambling at the gift shop (at triple the price):

Quality Binoculars

Not the cheap ones from the discount bin. Invest in at least 8×42 or 10×42 magnification binoculars. Wildlife viewing happens from distance, and you’ll use these constantly. Eagles perch in trees along the shore, whales breach hundreds of yards away, and bears fish in rivers you’ll observe from safe vantage points.

Camera Equipment That Makes Sense

Your smartphone camera won’t cut it for wildlife photography. You need either a good zoom lens or a camera with significant optical zoom. Learn more about capturing Alaska wildlife through proper photography techniques.

• DSLR or mirrorless camera: With at least a 200mm lens, preferably 300-400mm
• Point-and-shoot with 20x+ optical zoom: More affordable and easier to manage
• Extra batteries and memory cards: Cold drains batteries faster, and you’ll take thousands of photos
• Weather-sealed camera bag: Spray from the ocean and sudden rain showers are constant threats

Polarized Sunglasses

Regular sunglasses don’t cut glare from water and snow. Polarized lenses help you spot fish in streams, see through water surface glare to spot whales, and protect your eyes from intense reflected UV rays. Bring a backup pair—dropping sunglasses overboard is more common than you’d think.

Motion Sickness Solutions

Alaska’s Inside Passage is generally calm, but that “generally” has sunk many plans. Even if you’ve never been seasick, pack options:

• Prescription scopolamine patches (get these from your doctor before the trip)
• Dramamine or Bonine (non-drowsy versions)
• Ginger candies or capsules
• Sea-Bands acupressure wristbands

Pro tip: Start taking medication the night before embarkation, not after you feel sick. Prevention beats treatment.

Daypack or Small Backpack

A 15-20 liter pack works perfectly for shore excursions. You’ll need to carry water, snacks, extra layers, rain gear, camera equipment, and souvenirs. Make sure it’s water-resistant or pack a rain cover. Avoid checking bags on excursions—keep everything with you.

Sun Protection in the Land of the Midnight Sun

This surprises everyone: you can get seriously sunburned in Alaska. The extended daylight hours, reflection off water and snow, and thinner atmosphere at northern latitudes create perfect conditions for UV damage even on cloudy days.

• Broad-spectrum SPF 50+ sunscreen: Apply to face, neck, ears, and hands every morning. Reapply after shore excursions.
• Lip balm with SPF 30+: Your lips have no melanin and burn easily in reflected UV light.
• Wide-brimmed hat or baseball cap: Protects your face and keeps rain off your glasses or camera.
• Buff or neck gaiter: Protects your neck and can double as a face warmer on cold morning excursions.

Onboard Attire: From Formal Nights to Casual Evenings

Don’t make the mistake of packing only hiking gear. Your Alaska cruise ship still has dress codes, formal nights, and upscale dining venues. For comprehensive outfit planning, review this first-timer’s guide to Alaska cruises.

Formal Nights (1-2 per week-long cruise)

For women: Cocktail dress, dressy pantsuit, or nice skirt and blouse combination. Bring versatile pieces you can mix and match. Check out these cruise outfit ideas specifically for women for more inspiration.

For men: Dark suit with tie, or at minimum dress slacks with dress shirt and sport coat. Some cruise lines accept “smart casual” but err on the formal side. See these 48 cruise outfit ideas for men for practical options.

Smart Casual Nights (Most Evenings)

• Khakis, dress pants, or dark jeans (without holes)
• Collared shirts, blouses, or sweaters
• Closed-toe shoes (no flip-flops in dining rooms)

Daytime Casual

Anything goes during the day: jeans, shorts (when weather permits), t-shirts, sweatshirts. Just keep a light layer handy for air-conditioned interior spaces.

The Electronics You’ll Actually Use

Phone and Tablet

Download offline maps, field guides for Alaska wildlife, and entertainment before you sail. Ship WiFi is expensive and slow. Put your phone in airplane mode to avoid international roaming charges if your ship travels through Canadian waters.

Camera Batteries and Charging

Bring at least two extra camera batteries. Cold weather drains them quickly, and you’ll shoot more photos than ever. Pack a charging station that can handle multiple devices simultaneously.

Power Adapters and Outlets

Most ships have standard North American outlets (110V), but older cabins may only have one or two outlets. Bring a multi-port USB charging station and power strip (without surge protector—those are often prohibited). International travelers need US plug adapters.

Portable Charger

A 10,000+ mAh portable battery keeps your phone alive during long shore excursions. Nothing’s worse than your phone dying right when that humpback whale breaches next to the boat.

The Packing Strategy That Prevents Overpacking

Alaska cruises tempt you to pack everything you own “just in case.” Here’s how to pack smart instead of heavy:

The Outfit Formula

For a 7-day cruise, pack:

• 3-4 bottoms (pants/jeans that you can wear multiple times)
• 5-6 tops that mix and match with all bottoms
• 2 mid-layer pieces (fleece, cardigan, hoodie)
• 1 waterproof jacket
• 1 warm insulated jacket
• 2 formal/dressy outfits
• Undergarments for 7 days (no laundry needed for one week)
• 2-3 pairs of socks per day (they get wet)

Color Coordination Hack

Stick to a basic color palette—black, navy, gray, and one accent color. Everything mixes with everything else, giving you more outfit combinations from fewer pieces. Bonus: dark colors hide the inevitable coffee spill or muddy splash.

Compression Bags

Use compression cubes or bags for clothing. They organize your suitcase and create space for souvenirs on the return trip. Roll clothes instead of folding to minimize wrinkles and maximize space.

Wear Your Bulkiest Items on Travel Days

Wear your hiking boots and heaviest jacket on the plane or during embarkation. This saves significant luggage space and keeps your bag under weight limits.

Toiletries and Health Essentials

Ships provide basic shampoo and soap, but you’ll want your own supplies:

Must-Haves

• Prescription medications: Bring more than you need in original containers. Pack them in carry-on luggage, never checked bags.
• Basic first-aid kit: Band-aids, antibiotic ointment, pain relievers, anti-diarrheal medication, antihistamine
• Moisturizer and lotion: Ship air conditioning and Alaska’s climate dry out skin quickly
• Sea-specific products: Anti-chafing balm if you’re doing active excursions

Skip These (Available Onboard)

• Hair dryer (provided in cabins)
• Beach towels (provided for shore excursions)
• Shampoo and conditioner if you’re not picky (basic versions provided)

Documents and Money Matters

Essential Documents

• Passport (required for most Alaska cruises, even those departing from US ports)
• Cruise confirmation and boarding passes
• Travel insurance documents
• Excursion confirmations if booked independently
• Emergency contact information
• Health insurance cards

Money and Cards

Most ship purchases charge to your onboard account, but you’ll need cash and cards for ports:

• Small bills ($1, $5, $10) for tips during independent excursions
• Credit card with no foreign transaction fees (useful in Canadian ports)
• Backup credit card in case one gets demagnetized
• Notify your bank of travel dates to avoid card blocks

Mistakes That Cost You Time and Money

Learn from others’ expensive lessons. Review this complete guide to common Alaska cruise mistakes to avoid before you go.

Buying Gear at Port Gift Shops

That forgotten fleece will cost you $80 in Juneau’s tourist shops versus $25 if you’d bought it at home. The same goes for sunscreen, hats, gloves, and rain gear. Gift shop prices assume desperation and price accordingly.

Not Breaking in Hiking Boots

New boots need at least 20 miles of wear before a cruise. Your feet will revolt if you try breaking them in while walking miles of ship corridors and hiking rocky Alaskan trails.

Packing Only Dark Clothes

While practical, dark clothing makes you harder to spot in group photos and against Alaska’s dramatic landscapes. Pack at least one or two brightly colored layers that pop in photos—you’ll thank yourself when sorting through pictures later.

Forgetting Laundry Bags

Bring a separate bag for dirty clothes or wet gear. Nothing’s worse than damp hiking socks making everything in your suitcase smell like adventure (and not in a good way).

Bonus Tips That Separate Pros from Rookies

Pack a Tide Pen or Stain Remover

You will spill something on yourself before formal night. It’s basically a law of cruising. A tide pen saves you from wearing the stain or changing outfits.

Bring Ziplock Bags (Various Sizes)

These are incredibly versatile: protecting electronics from rain, storing wet clothes, carrying snacks on excursions, organizing small items, collecting treasures (within legal limits) from beaches, and keeping passports dry.

Pack Hand Warmers

Chemical hand warmers cost pennies at home but are gold during early-morning whale watching or glacier viewing. Toss them in pockets and gloves for instant warmth. They also keep camera batteries warmer and functioning better.

Bring a Highlighter and Ship Map

On embarkation day, grab the ship’s daily newsletter and deck map. Highlight your cabin location, dining rooms, and key amenities. Those first few days involve a lot of wandering lost through ship corridors.

Pack Snacks

While cruise ships offer abundant food, you might want specific snacks for excursions or early mornings before the buffet opens. Protein bars, trail mix, and instant coffee packets are clutch.

Download Offline Entertainment

Alaska cruises involve long scenic sailing days through fjords. Download books, movies, podcasts, and music before sailing because ship WiFi is too slow and expensive for streaming.

Bring a Lanyard

Your ship card is your room key, payment method, and identification onboard. A lanyard around your neck means you’ll never leave it in your cabin or lose it overboard (happens more than you’d think).

What to Actually Wear on Embarkation Day

This often-overlooked detail matters because you won’t access your luggage for several hours after boarding:

• Comfortable walking shoes (you’ll tour the ship)
• Layers you can adjust (ship temperatures vary wildly)
• Clothes you can wear to dinner that evening
• Keep medications, valuables, and essentials in carry-on bags

The Ultimate Packing Checklist

Print this and check items off as you pack:

Clothing

• Waterproof rain jacket with hood
• Waterproof rain pants
• Fleece jacket or pullover
• Insulated jacket for cold weather
• Long-sleeve shirts (4-6)
• T-shirts (3-4)
• Long pants (3-4 pairs)
• Warm hat and gloves
• Sun hat or baseball cap
• Undergarments (7+ sets)
• Warm socks (10+ pairs)
• Formal attire (2 outfits)
• Smart casual evening wear (3-4 outfits)
• Swimsuit (for hot tub, even if you think you won’t use it)

Footwear

• Waterproof hiking boots/shoes
• Comfortable walking sneakers
• Dress shoes
• Sandals or flip-flops (for cabin and pool deck)

Accessories and Gear

• Binoculars (8×42 or 10×42)
• Camera with zoom lens or high zoom capability
• Extra camera batteries and memory cards
• Polarized sunglasses (plus backup pair)
• Reading glasses or contacts (bring backups)
• Day pack or small backpack
• Reusable water bottle
• Hand warmers (10-20)

Electronics

• Phone and charger
• Tablet or e-reader and charger
• Camera charging equipment
• Portable battery pack
• Multi-port USB charging station
• Power strip (without surge protector)
• Headphones
• Plug adapters (if traveling internationally)

Sun and Weather Protection

• SPF 50+ sunscreen
• Lip balm with SPF
• Moisturizer
• After-sun lotion

Health and Safety

• Prescription medications (extra supply)
• Motion sickness remedies
• Basic first-aid supplies
• Pain relievers
• Antihistamine
• Anti-diarrheal medication
• Vitamins and supplements

Documents and Money

• Passport
• Cruise documents and confirmations
• Travel insurance information
• Credit cards (notify bank of travel)
• Small bills for tipping
• Emergency contact information

Miscellaneous

• Toiletries and personal care items
• Laundry bag for dirty clothes
• Ziplock bags (various sizes)
• Tide pen or stain remover
• Travel-size laundry detergent (if planning to hand-wash)
• Luggage tags
• Small sewing kit
• Travel umbrella (compact)
• Notebook and pen
• Snacks for excursions

Regional Packing Variations by Port

Different Alaska cruise itineraries visit different regions with varying weather patterns:

Inside Passage Focus

Juneau, Ketchikan, Skagway typically have milder temperatures but more rain. Prioritize waterproof gear over heavy insulation.

Glacier Bay and Hubbard Glacier

These glacier-viewing days are significantly colder with wind chill. Bring your warmest layers and windproof outer shell.

Seward and Whittier

Gulf of Alaska ports can be rougher with more wind. Pack extra seasickness remedies and secure any loose items in your cabin.

What You Can Buy Onboard (If You Forget)

Ships stock emergency supplies, but at premium prices:

• Basic clothing (logo sweatshirts, t-shirts, light jackets)
• Toiletries (travel-size at inflated prices)
• Sunscreen and aloe vera
• Motion sickness medications
• Reading glasses (basic magnification)
• Camera memory cards and batteries

What ships typically DON’T stock: hiking boots, serious rain gear, quality binoculars, camera lenses, prescription medications, specific clothing sizes.

Sustainable Packing Choices

Alaska’s pristine environment deserves protection. Make eco-conscious packing choices:

• Reef-safe sunscreen (protects marine life)
• Reusable water bottle instead of buying plastic bottles
• Rechargeable batteries instead of disposables
• Reusable shopping bag for souvenirs
• Bar soap and shampoo instead of small plastic bottles
• Leave-no-trace principles for shore excursions

Special Considerations for Different Travelers

Families with Children

• Pack activities and entertainment for sea days
• Bring kid-sized binoculars (adult ones are too heavy)
• Extra layers since kids feel cold faster
• Glow sticks for evening fun on balconies
• Motion sickness remedies specifically for children

Photography Enthusiasts

• Multiple lenses (wide-angle for landscapes, telephoto for wildlife)
• Tripod or monopod (collapsible)
• Lens cleaning supplies
• Rain cover for camera equipment
• External hard drive for backing up photos

Mobility Considerations

• Comfortable shoes with excellent support
• Hiking poles for stability on uneven terrain
• Research port accessibility before booking excursions
• Pack lighter since you’ll manage luggage more carefully

Common Questions and FAQ

Should I pack formal attire even though it’s Alaska?

Yes, most Alaska cruises still have at least one formal night, and specialty restaurants maintain dress codes. You’ll feel out of place in hiking gear when everyone else is dressed up. Pack at least one formal outfit and a couple of smart casual options.

Do I really need waterproof pants, or is a rain jacket enough?

Rain pants might seem excessive until you’re standing on an open boat watching whales in steady rain for two hours. Your legs and regular pants will get soaked, making you miserable. They’re lightweight and compress small in your luggage, so bring them. You’ll use them at least once and be grateful.

Can I wear jeans to dinner on the ship?

For casual dining venues and the buffet, jeans are generally fine. For main dining room dinners and specialty restaurants, check your cruise line’s specific dress code. Most allow neat, dark jeans without holes for smart casual nights but not for formal nights. When in doubt, pack khakis or dress pants as alternatives.

How many pairs of shoes should I really bring?

Three pairs minimum: waterproof hiking boots for excursions, comfortable walking shoes for ship and easier ports, and dress shoes for formal nights. If space allows, add casual sandals for the cabin and pool area. Yes, it sounds like a lot, but each serves a specific purpose you’ll actually need.

Will I have enough outlets in my cabin for all my devices?

Most cabins have limited outlets—often just one or two. Bring a multi-port USB charging station and a power strip without surge protector (surge protectors are typically prohibited on ships for safety reasons). This lets you charge phones, tablets, cameras, and other devices simultaneously overnight.

Is it worth bringing expensive binoculars or camera equipment?

Absolutely yes if you’re interested in wildlife. Alaska offers some of the world’s best wildlife viewing opportunities, but animals maintain distance. Phone cameras and basic point-and-shoots won’t capture whales breaching 200 yards away or eagles perched in distant trees. Quality binoculars and camera equipment transform your experience from seeing distant blobs to watching bears catch salmon. Keep equipment in a weatherproof bag and insure valuable items before traveling.

What if the weather is warmer than expected and I packed too many layers?

Better too many layers than too few—you can always leave items in the cabin, but you can’t create warmth if you didn’t pack it. Temperatures can drop significantly during glacier viewing regardless of the forecast. That said, if you’re cruising in July and pack for arctic conditions, you’ve overdone it. Check historical weather data for your specific cruise dates and ports to find the right balance.

Do I need Canadian currency for Alaska cruise ports?

Some Alaska cruise itineraries include Canadian ports like Victoria or Vancouver. Most Canadian businesses near cruise terminals accept US dollars but give change in Canadian currency at unfavorable exchange rates. Your credit card typically offers better exchange rates, so use cards when possible. Alternatively, exchange a small amount of cash before your trip or withdraw from a Canadian ATM upon arrival. For practical tips specific to your itinerary, check out more Alaska outfit planning advice that covers various scenarios.

Personal Experience

When I started planning my Alaska cruise, I thought packing would be straightforward – just throw in some warm clothes and call it good, right? Wrong. The weather in Alaska is wildly unpredictable, and I quickly learned that layers are absolutely essential. One morning we’d be watching glaciers in chilly 45-degree weather, and by afternoon we’d be hiking in the sun at 70 degrees. I packed a waterproof jacket, a fleece pullover, and several long-sleeve shirts that I could mix and match. Those items saved me every single day. I also brought a good pair of waterproof hiking boots and regular sneakers, which turned out to be perfect for switching between shore excursions and casual shipboard evenings.

The other thing that caught me off guard was how useful binoculars and a decent camera were. We spotted whales, bears, and eagles from the ship, and having binoculars meant I didn’t miss those magical moments. I also packed a small backpack for excursions, sunscreen (yes, even in Alaska!), and a reusable water bottle. Don’t forget dressier outfits if your cruise has formal nights – I almost left those behind thinking it was all about the rugged outdoors. The key is balancing practical outdoor gear with comfortable cruise wear, and trust me, checking the weather forecast for each port before you leave home helps tremendously.